Fire Extinguishers - On the job Tool Box Talks

Armed with the right type of fire extinguisher, a person can often extinguish or contain a fire before it becomes a major blaze. But to effectively fight a fire, an individual must be prepared with the right type of extinguisher, have it readily available, and know how to use it properly. Failure to be properly prepared to extinguish a fire not only reduces the chances of containing the blaze, but may also place the individual in an extremely hazardous situation.

If you lack the tools or the skills to fight a fire, no matter how small, get out of the building, call your local fire department and wait for them to arrive.

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
There are several types of fire extinguishers available, but the best type is a multipurpose "ABC" type extinguisher. ABC type extinguishers generally use ammonium phosphate as the active chemical to extinguish a fire and are capable of putting out most common fires.
Extinguishers are rated for the type of fire they are made to extinguish.
- A - Ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, hay, etc.
- B - Flammable liquids such as gas, oil, grease and other petroleum products.
- C - Electrical fires.

As this listing shows, an ABC type extinguisher is capable of extinguishing most fires. When pulling out a generator or using other flammable materials or liquids, make sure there is a fire extinguisher readily available. Knows where your Fire Extinguisher is located and make certain that it is fully charged. A dead fire extinguisher is useless. Visually inspect the Fire Extinguisher daily to for proper charge.

To Operate a Fire Extinguisher:
1. Take extinguisher from mounting bracket.
2. Remove locking pin, ring, clip, level, etc. Get into a crouching position on the upwind side of the fire.
3. Point extinguisher nozzle at base of fire and squeeze the lever or handle.
4. Discharge using a sweeping motion from side to side at the base of the fire.

This information is provided by: Assurance Agency

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