How to Properly Use Your Fire Extinguisher

3/6/2017 (Permalink)

Fire extinguishers save lives!

Why you should consider a fire extinguisher for your Dutchess County home. 

Fire extinguishers can save your life! They can put out a fire before emergency personnel arrive or they can help you exit your home safely.

What type do you get?

All household fire extinguishers have 3 classifications: A, B or C. Some models have a combination of all three extinguishers in one. 

• "A" is for ordinary combustibles like trash, wood and paper


• "B" is for liquids & grease (more stove top fires)


• "C" is for electrical equipment

According to the National Fire Protection Association, each floor of your home should have an extinguisher. 

How do you use a fire extinguisher?

To use the extinguisher properly, you want to use the PASS method:

• Pull the pin. Hold the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.


• Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire instead of at the flames themselves. Standing at least 6 feet away from the fire is important! 


• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly while keeping the extinguisher upright. 


• Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side until the extinguisher runs dry.

Read the instructions on the fire extinguisher and become familiar with them before a fire breaks out. Remember, extinguishers do have limitations so make sure you have the correct extinguisher for your home. 

Whenever you use an extinguisher, whether you ran it dry or used it briefly, it's important to replace it or refill it right away. This is also the rule for any gauge that goes down to the red zone over time. 

Even though you take precautions against fire damages, they can still sometimes occur. If you experience a fire damage in your home, don't hesitate to contact SERVPRO of Western Dutchess County at 845-831-3600 to help make this disaster "Like it never even happened."