Image via WikipediaBy Albert ZornNFPA Certified Fire Protection Specialist
Have you ever experienced a fire emergency in your own home? If not, chances are that you don't respect your fire extinguisher. Those who have experienced a fire emergency first hand and have resolved it with the use of a fire extinguisher know the value of this first line of defense. Fire extinguishers are meant to be used only on small, contained fires that have just begun. Fire extinguishers are not a substitute for the fire department. If a fire is large and spreading, shift your focus to evacuation rather than extinguishing the fire.
ABC Dry Chemical Fire Extinguishers are ideal for homes because they extinguishe most household fires. ABC Fire Extinguishers can be used on paper, wood, burning liquid and electrical fires. They are the least expensive and most effective fire extinguishers. The only drawback is that they make a dusty, powdery mess that permeates the home. Fortunately, ABC Dry Chemical powder is non-toxic and is classified only as an irritant.
Using a fire extinguisher is easy. Regardless, you should review the procedures for proper operation every six months. Regular practice will save precious seconds in an actual fire emergency. Each fire extinguisher has written and pictographic instruction labeling on the front. Do not pull the pin or discharge the fire extinguisher during practice as this will render it useless. The proper procedure for using a fire extinguisher is to stand 8 - 10 feet from the fire and use the P.A.S.S. system, PULL the pin, AIM the hose, SQUEEZE the handle, and SWEEP side to side. After you have used the fire extinguisher, either have it recharged by a qualified service facility or dispose of it properly.
Most inexpensive fire extinguishers are constructed with plastic parts and may not be reliable when needed. Your best bet is getting a quality commercial grade extinguisher such as an Amerex Fire Extinguisher. Amerex constructs their extinguishers with durable components made with brass and aluminum. These fire extinguishers can be recharged multiple times and can last many years. Normal maintenance include inspections every 6 years with a pressure test at 12 years. With proper maintenance Amerex Fire Extinguishes can provide a lifetime of service.
Go ahead and visit your home fire extinguisher, give it some respect. Check the date it was manufactured, check the pressure gauge to ensure it is in the operable range, and weigh it to make sure it the weight matches or exceeds the minimum weight on the manufacturers label. Most important, ensure you have a fire extinguisher in a visible and accessible place on every floor of your home and in your garage. If you follow these guidelines, you're first defense in a fire will be ready for action!
