When used properly,
portable fire extinguishers can help save lives and property.
They are also useful in containing small fires until the
fire department arrives.
Portable home fire extinguishers
are not designed to extinguish large or spreading fires.
Even against small fires, they are useful only under certain
conditions.
Fire Extinguishers
ARE designed for:
Small fires
Confined fire areas
People who have read the directions earlier
Fire Extinguishers ARE NOT designed for:
Large fires
Rapidly growing fires
People who are unfamiliar with fire extinguisher use
Fire extinguishers come
in different classes. Know what is on fire and use the
proper extinguisher.
| Class A |
| Ordinary Combustibles |
| Wood |
| Paper |
| Plastics |
| Cloth |
|
| Class B |
| Flammable Liquids
|
| Grease |
| Oil |
| |
| |
|
| Class C |
| Electrical Equipment
|
| TV |
| VCR |
| Power Tools |
| |
|
| Class D |
| Flammable Metals
|
| Magnesium |
| |
| |
|
WARNING!
Using a fire extinguisher on the wrong class of fire can
MAKE THE FIRE WORSE!
When a fire occurs
always:
Notify 911.
Sound any alarms.
Evacuate immediately.
You can try to use a fire extinguisher if you...
Know the fire is small and confined.
Keep a clear escape route. Don't let the fire get between
you and the exit.
Stay low, below the smoke.
If you have any doubt, leave the area.
Leave if fire grows out of control.
Close doors to contain fire.
Wait for the fire department's permission before you re-enter
the area.
NEVER...
Attempt to extinguish a large or rapidly growing fire.
Fight fires without an escape route.
Fight fires in a smoke filled room.
Fight fires if you are in doubt.
Assume the fire is out. Always call the fire department
to inspect the area.
Ignore any of these steps.
