Fire extinguishers are so common in our modern environment that it can be easy not to notice them sometimes. They’re in hallways, under sinks, and behind stairwells. But have you ever actually used one or learned how? While it might seem like a simple matter of instinct, there’s more to it than pulling the tag and squeezing the grip. To prevent the need for fire damage restoration, and to save yourself some trouble, have a look at some of the most effective ways to use a fire extinguisher.

How to Get the Most out of Your Extinguisher

1. Make Sure You Have the Right Type of Extinguisher

It might seem like one fire extinguisher is the same as any other, but there are specialized types depending on the situation, environment, and kind of fire. The recommended extinguisher for home use is called an ABC extinguisher. These use monoammonium phosphate, a dry yellow chemical that puts out fires by quickly smothering them. Having the right kind of extinguisher will ensure that any fire damage restoration will be made easier by putting fires out quickly and effectively.

2. Ensure Your Extinguisher Is Pressurized

Extinguishers don’t need much maintenance apart from occasional replacement every five to 15 years, depending on the type. The one big thing to check is the pressure. On top of every extinguisher is a round gauge showing the pressure level in psi (pounds per square inch). It can be too low, too high, or right in the green area that indicates good pressure. So long as the needle is in the green zone, your pressure will be just right to ensure even distribution of the extinguishing agent, helping you to put out fires quickly and safely.

3. Identify an Escape Route Before Tackling a Fire

The most important thing to remember about a fire—more than putting it out—is to get away from it quickly and safely. If your extinguisher winds up not being up to the task, your next step is to use a clear evacuation route, identified beforehand, to get away as fast as possible. Identify the safest exits and map backup escape routes around high-risk areas like the stove or your clothes dryer and practice escaping to prepare yourself fully.

If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a fire and find yourself in need of fire damage restoration, Restoration 1 of Greater Las Vegas is here for you. The highly trained and fully certified professionals at Restoration 1 can help with everything from fire damage to mold remediation, using eco-friendly methods and materials. Find out more online or call (702) 941-6406 today.