Sam Crudgington

“In the event of a fire” may seem like the obvious answer. But using an extinguisher without taking the proper precautions is not safe . It can actually put you, and everyone in the building, at serious risk. Do you know how to use a fire extinguisher and when is it safe to attempt to extinguish a fire?

You should attempt to fight a fire with a fire extinguisher ONLY when all the following are true…

  • Everyone has left or is leaving the building in case the fire spreads
  • The fire department has been called
  • The fire is small and confined to the immediate area where it started i.e a wastebasket, cushion, small appliance, stove etc
  • The room has not filled with smoke
  • You can fight the fire with your back to a safe escape route
  • Your extinguisher is rated for the type of fire you are fighting, and it is in good working order
  • You have had practical training using extinguishers and are confident you can operate it effectively

Remember: if you have even the slightest doubt about whether to fight the fire – DON’T. Instead get out, closing the door behind you to slow the spread of the fire, and leave it to the professionals.

How to use a Fire Extinguisher

Using an extinguisher should not be a complicated process. However, it is not something we do on an everyday basis. Therefore, it is unlikely that you know how to use a fire extinguisher or that you have had the opportunity to do so too many times. Practical Use of Fire Extinguisher courses can help to eliminate any worries you have about not knowing what to do should you find yourself in a situation needing to use one.

Aside from this, there is a simple tip you can use to help. Just remember PASS; Pull. Aim. Squeeze. Sweep.

how to use a fire extinguisher total safe uk fire safety solutions essex south eastPULL the pin at the top of the extinguisher. this will release the lock and allow you to use the unit.

AIM the extinguisher at the base of the fire. Aiming at the flames will only cause the flames to be blown around which will allow the fire to spread and cause even more damage.

SQUEEZE the lever on the extinguisher slowly. This will release the extinguishing agent

SWEEP the hose from size to side. Cover the area of the fire’s source until the fire is completely soaked. Wait a few seconds until you are completely certain the fire is out and does not reignite.

Knowing how to put out a fire is extremely important. If you don’t feel comfortable using a fire extinguisher, Total Safe urge you not to take the risk! If you are in a position at work where you would be responsible for possibly having to use an extinguisher and you don’t feel comfortable you could do so, talk to your employer about organising some training.

Did you know fire extinguisher maintenance should be carried out on the extinguishers in your workplace annually? Contact our team today to book your fire extinguisher servicing.