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When to Fight Small Fires!

Of all causes of death, fire deaths are the most preventable.  The statistics prove that prevention is the smart way to protect your family.  A charged and fully operational fire extinguisher is another way to protect your family from an unpredicted small home fire.

Every 74 seconds another residential fire occurs.

Have at least one multi-purpose fire extinguisher in your home.  A single fire extinguisher is capable of putting or holding back small-contained fires until firefighters can reach your home.  It is another part of a practical fire safety plan.

 What Extinguisher Fits Your Needs?

Who?   Consider the ages and physical strength of your family members.  Make sure the extinguisher can be picked up and operated by the intended users.  Do not encourage children to use extinguishers.

What?  Consider the types of fire your home is susceptible to and then choose the size or class of extinguisher that is needed.

Where?  Each home needs at least one extinguisher, centrally located, out of children’s reach, and away from potential fire hazards.  Consider additional extinguishers for the kitchen and garage.

Every extinguisher varies so, be sure to read through your extinguisher’s operations manual!

The extinguisher you choose should be listed and labeled by an independent testing laboratory.

                 

Class A

Ordinary Combustibles” used on wood, rubber, cloth, paper, and plastic.

Class B

Flammable Liquids” used on gasoline, oil, grease, tar, lacquer, and oil-based paints.

Class C

Electrical Equipment” used on wiring, fuse boxes, breakers, machinery, and appliances.

Class D

Combustible Metals” used on industrial metal or metal dust.


 

Extinguisher Operation

When a small fire breaks out, have someone else call the fire department immediately.  If you are unable to put out the fire, valuable time will not be wasted.

Use the PASS word!

Pull the pin (or other motion) to unlock the extinguisher.

Aim at the base (bottom) of the fire and stand 6-10 feet away.

Squeeze the lever to discharge the agent.

Sweep the spray from left to right until the flames are totally extinguished.

Watch the area and repeat if necessary, providing your extinguisher has not been fully discharged.  Even if it appears to be out, your fire department should check the area for hidden fire or flames that could re-ignite.

Fire Extinguisher Maintenance

Over time, an extinguisher can lose pressure.  Be sure to check it once a month.  IF it is rechargeable, take it to a service center.  If it is not, replace it.

Periodically inspect extinguishers for damage such as corrosion, dents, or other signs of leaks.

Most extinguishers for home use discharge in as little as 8-10 seconds and must be replaced after each use.

Call the fire department about training and practice for the public.

When Should You Fight?

Be sure you can answer “YES” to all of these questions before attempting to fight a small fire.

1. Is everyone out of the building?  Has the fire department been called?

2. Is the fire small and contained in one area and not spreading?

3. Is there an escape route that is clear of obstacles and to your back?

4. Do you know how to operate the extinguisher and is it in working order?

5. Is the room clear of smoke?

If the fire does not respond within seconds,

LEAVE IMMEDIATELY

...THIS FIRE IS FOR PROFESSIONALS!!!

 

 

City offices: Memorial Building, 101 South Lincoln, PO Box 907, Chanute, Kansas 66720
Telephone 620/431-5200           Fax 620/431-5209
city@chanute.org