Life-Saving Fire Extinguisher Facts

Fire extinguishers sound like a simple tool for putting out a small fire in theory. Pull the trigger, and you’re saved! In reality, they are much more complicated than they may look. Here are five important facts about fire extinguishers that could possibly save your life one day!

1. Fire extinguishers absolutely must be accessible at all times. – Each and every fire extinguisher in your building must be easy to reach and accessible at all times. Make sure that each location is clearly labeled so that it can be found should a fire break out.
2. There are different types of fire extinguishers. – Although they all share the same end goal, not all extinguishers are equal. Every extinguisher should be labeled as to what type of fire and/or materials they are specifically designed to be used on, including wood, cloth, flammable liquids, computer or electrical fires, or metal sources. Each of these types of fires require different methods of extinguishing. Using the wrong extinguisher could potentially make the fire even worse.
3. Remember the acronym for operation. – If you find yourself in a situation in which you must use your extinguisher, remember P.A.S.S. – pull, aim, squeeze, and sweep. First, pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher. Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire, then squeeze the handle and sweep the nozzle from side to side to fully extinguish the fire.
4. Consider the potential fire extinguisher users. – If a fire extinguisher is too heavy to lift, it won’t be able to help anyone. Take potential users into account when selecting one for your building, as they come in different weights and sizes.
5. Regular inspections are vital. – Regular inspections are the difference between safety and disaster. Fire extinguishers must be regularly inspected to ensure that they are in proper working order at all times. During these inspections, a trained professional will decide if any maintenance or repairs must be completed.

Make sure that your building is ready before the unthinkable happens. At A Total Solution, Inc., we offer fire extinguisher inspections, maintenance, installations, repairs, and even emergency services. Contact our trained fire professionals today to learn more about life-saving fire extinguishers.