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Operation & Maintenance

FIRE EXTINGUISHER OPERATION – P.A.S.S

P– Pull the safety pin, this will allow you to discharge the extinguisher.

A– Aim the extinguisher the base of the fire, this will allow you to hit the fuel.

S– Squeeze the top handle or lever, this will release the pressurized extinguishing agent.

S– Sweep the extinguisher hose from side to side until the fire is completely out.

Whenever possible, use the buddy system when using a fire extinguisher. If you have doubt about your personal safety or if you cannot extinguish a fire, leave immediately

and close the doors (do not lock them). Leave the area, but contact 999 to relay whatever information you have about the fire.

After pulling the pin on the fire extinguisher stand back several feet from the fire, depress the handle, and sweep back and forth until the fire is completely out. Wait and carefully check that the fire is out and has not reignited.

If it has reignited, spray again – but remember that a typical fire extinguisher usually provides only 60 seconds of extinguishing power.

 

FIRE EXTINGUISHER MAINTENANCE

  • Fire extinguishers should be mounted on the wall to prevent being damaged.
  • The area in front of the extinguisher shall be kept clear at all times.
  • The pressure gauge should be in the green zone at all times.
  • Fire extinguishers should be inspected on a monthly basis.
  • Know the location of all fire extinguishers in your facility.

 

POINTS TO REMEMBER

You are not required to fight a fire. If you have the slightest doubt about your ability to control the situation, do not fight the fire. Use this mental checklist to make a fight-or-flight decision.

Before attempting to use an extinguisher, make sure all of the following apply:

  1. The building is being evacuated and the fire department has been called.
  2. The fire is small, contained and not spreading beyond its starting point.
  3. The exit is clear, there is no imminent peril, and you can fight the fire with your back to the exit.
  4. Know what type of fuel is burning.
  5. The proper extinguisher is on hand and you know how to properly and safely use it.

NOTE:

Fire extinguishers purchased at local hardware stores are often only good for one use and cannot be recharged, and must be thrown away.