Every year, approximately 350,000 house fires break out in the U.S. To limit the potential fire damage and protect your loved ones should this happen to you, all homeowners should equip their property with fire alarms and a fire extinguisher. In addition, you should train yourself and your family members to use the extinguisher in a crisis.

How to Effectively Use a Fire Extinguisher

1. Ensure You Have the Correct Type

Fire extinguishers are categorized from Class A to Class K, depending on the types of blazes they fight. Class A is meant to be used on small fires caused by combustible wood or paper; Class K handles anything fueled by cooking oils and grease.

In most cases, an ABC extinguisher is recommended for homeowners. This combination fire fighting tool will safely address blazes caused by wood or paper, flammable liquids, or electric malfunctions.

2. Position Yourself Correctly

Don’t attempt to fight a fire if you have any doubts about your ability to do so safely. When using an extinguisher, stand with your back to an exit. This gives you room to retreat should the fire grow while you’re fighting it.

Stay eight to twelve feet away from the blaze. This keeps you at a distance from the flames but also within the range of most extinguishers.

3. Attack the Source

Once in position, pull out the pin that is inserted into the handle to prevent accidentally discharging it. Aim the hose with your free hand towards the base of the fire to attack the source that’s fueling the flame. Then, squeeze slowly and with even pressure to spray it.

The most effective method is to spray it in a sweeping motion across the base of the fire. As the flame subsides, you can start to step closer to it until it’s been reduced to embers.

4. Restock the Extinguisher

Once the fire is out, replace or refill your extinguisher for future incidents. The safest and most efficient way to have yours refilled is by having it serviced by a trained safety professional that holds a formal fire department certification.

 

If there’s any lingering fire damage after you’ve extinguished the flame, contact Arkansas Restoration Services in Russellville, AR. Proudly providing Pope, Yell, Conway, and Johnson Counties with water, smoke, and fire damage restoration for more than 30 years, their highly trained team has the experience and tools needed to get your home looking like new again following a disaster. Schedule an appointment by calling (479) 967-2018 or learn more about their services online.