Portable Fire Extinguishers

It is always better to fight a fire through prevention and early detection. However, with training and practice adults can use portable fire extinguishers to extinguish small contained fires. (Such as a cooking pan, wastebasket fire or campfire blaze.) This may minimize property damage and prevent needless injury.

Four Types of Fire Extinguishers

 

Class A

Materials such as wood, paper, cloth and rubber which are normally found around the home

Class B

Flamable or combustible liquids, grease, oil-based paints, lacquers, some rubbers

Class C

Energized electrical equipment and household appliances such as televisions, radios and stoves

Class D

Combustable metals such as magnesium, sodium or potassium

When Should An Extinguisher NOT Be Used?

• If you don't know how to use it
• If you are breathing in smoke/gasses
• If the fire is larger than you

Note: A portable fire extinguisher is designed for a 'small' contained fire.

When Should An Extinguisher Be Used?

If you discover a fire, you can use a portable fire extinguisher if:

• Everyone has left the fire area and is evacuating the building.
• The fire department has been called.
• The fire is confined to a small area.
• A clear escape route exists between you and the fire.
• There is an appropriate, working fire extinguisher available.
• You have read the extinguisher instructions and received training in its safe operation.

Instructions for Use

• Keep well back of the fire when using the extinguisher.
• Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you.
• Remove the pin or lever release mechanism, unlocking the operating lever.
•  Aim the extinguisher nozzle at the base of the fire. Hold the extinguisher vertically.
• Squeeze the handle to fully release the contents of the extinguisher.
• Move the nozzle from side to side in a sweeping motion at the base of the fire. Fight the fire closest to you and continue the sweeping motion until the fire is extinguished.

Other Safety Tips

• Check the pressure gauge on the extinguisher each month to ensure the device is holding its charge
• Refill or replace your fire extinguisher after each use. Rechargable models should be serviced after every use and disposable extinguishers must be replaced.
• Extinguishers should be located in areas that contain potential fire hazards (kitchen, workshop, garage, basement).
• In each area, place the extinguisher near the door so you can reach it easily, extinguish the fire and ensure a safe escape.

For More Information

Fire Prevention

Telephone	780-496-3628
Email	publicsafetyandeducation@edmonton.ca