Fire Safety: Fire Extinguishers

4/27/2021 (Permalink)

At the workplace, a fire can seem like an extremely rare occurrence and for the most part, it is. No matter how rare these disasters happen, you and your employees should always be prepared. One of the most important tips for fire safety is how to effectively deal with the fire when discovered. These tips from the NFPA can prove to be very useful for your situations.

Safety tips

• Use a portable fire extinguisher when the fire is confined to a small area, such as a wastebasket, and is not growing; everyone has exited the building; the fire department has been called or is being called; and the room is not filled with smoke.
• To operate a fire extinguisher, remember the word PASS:
  
  
• Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you, and release the locking mechanism.
• Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
• Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.
• For the home, select a multi-purpose extinguisher (can be used on all types of home fires) that is large enough to put out a small fire, but not so heavy as to be difficult to handle.
• Choose a fire extinguisher that carries the label of an independent testing laboratory.
• Read the instructions that come with the fire extinguisher and become familiar with its parts and operation before a fire breaks out. Local fire departments or fire equipment distributors often offer hands-on fire extinguisher trainings.
• Install fire extinguishers close to an exit and keep your back to a clear exit when you use the device so you can make an easy escape if the fire cannot be controlled. If the room fills with smoke, leave immediately.
• Know when to go. Fire extinguishers are one element of a fire response plan, but the primary element is safe escape. Every workplace should have a fire escape plan and working smoke alarms.

It is very important to note that not all fires can be contained with a traditional fire extinguisher. If your employees are not confident they can extinguish the fire, it probably means it can’t be. Personnel should instead be evacuated and allow the fire department to handle the rest.