Before pulling the pin, make sure you know how to operate a fire extinguisher.
Although sprinkler systems are designed to extinguish fires in your commercial space, they are not really designed to target one area of your business. If there is a small, management fire in your business, using a fire extinguisher may be your best option. But before spraying the chemicals all over your business, let’s take a moment to talk about when it is appropriate to use a fire extinguisher as well as some easy instructions on how to use it.
When Should You Use a Fire Extinguisher?
While it may seem like the obvious answer is “in the event of a fire.” But using a fire extinguisher without taking the proper precautions can actually put you and everyone in your building at serious risk. Before using a fire extinguisher, make sure the fire is contained and is not spreading around the area. It is also important to make sure the room has not filled with smoke before using an extinguisher. You should also make sure everyone is evacuated from the building in case the fire spreads. You should also alert the fire department. While everyone wants to stay and help put out a small fire if they can, it is more important to stay safe and leave the building unharmed.
Using a Fire Extinguisher
Using a fire extinguisher should not be a complicated process when you are in the middle of a fire. So to help you get more comfortable, there is an anagram to help you remember what to do. Just remember PASS: Pull. Aim. Squeeze. Sweep.
- Pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher. This pin will release the lock and allow you to discharge the extinguishing agent.
- Aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire. Aiming at the flames will cause the flames to blow around, allow it to spread and cause even more damage. But aiming at the base will extinguish it.
- Squeeze the lever on the fire extinguisher slowly. This will release the extinguishing agent.
- Sweep the nozzle from side to side to cover the area of the fire’s source until the fire is completely soused. Wait a few seconds until you are completely certain the fire is out and does not reignite.
Know how to put out a fire is extremely important, but if you don’t feel comfortable using a fire extinguisher, Fireline urges you not to take the risk. Misusing a fire extinguisher could cause more damage and injuries. For more information on using your commercial fire extinguisher, call Fireline today!
Using a Fire Extinguisher with Fireline
At Fireline, we offer an array of portable fire extinguishers, fire alarms, and sprinkler systems to keep commercial kitchens safe. Fireline offers the highest quality alarm systems to keep your business safe from fires and carbon monoxide poisoning. We also offer fire suppression systems as well to help keep commercial fires controlled should they break out. Our trained technicians will work with you to determine which air sampling smoke detection system is best for your business. We will also help install and maintain the system for your commercial building.
To get started with Fireline today, or for more information on sprinkler systems call us at 1-800-553-3405, or visit our contact page.
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