Fire Extinguisher

10/26/2018 (Permalink)

Most commercial owners have a fire extinguisher around.

In fact, most will have more than one in several areas to be safe. The garage, fireplace and kitchen are the most common areas to keep an extinguisher in case of a fire emergency. Even if you own one, you may not know how to use one. Here are the dos and don’ts that fire restoration services want you to know.

1. Do Not Keep a Broken Extinguisher

Always make sure that your extinguisher is up to date. Check for any cracks to the base or hose. You can also lift it up to see if it’s heavy. It should be full of the extinguishing agent and, hence, heavy to the touch. Lastly, a pressure gauge should tell you if the extinguisher is at an operable range.

2. Do Read the Instructions

Keep in mind that every fire extinguisher should have directions printed on it. It should explain the proper way to pull the safety pin, aim at the base of the fire, squeeze the trigger and sweep from side to side to put out the blaze. In a hurry, remember those steps. However, if you have time, you should always read the instructions.

3. Do Not Continue if Fire Grows

In the chance that the fire continues to spread, it’s vital that you know when to stop. The longer you wait as the flames spread through your business, the less chance you have of being able to escape unscathed. You don’t want your route to be cut off by a kitchen fire.

When it comes to using your fire extinguisher, you have to know what you’re doing. Having an extinguisher handy can help you avoid severe fire damage in your home. As long as you use it properly, you can feel a little safer.