SafeTips
Fire Extinguishers

1. Use portable fire extinguishers for putting out small fires or containing them until firefighters arrive.
2. Your first priority is to be able to get out of your house safely. Remember that fires grow and spread very quickly.
3. Make sure these conditions exist before using your fire extinguisher:
   • The fire is confined to a small area and isn't spreading,
   • Everyone else has left the house or building,
   • Someone has called the fire department, and
   • The room isn't filled with smoke.
4. To use a fire extinguisher, remember P-A-S-S:
   • Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you, and release the locking mechanism.
   • Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
   • Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
   • Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.
5. For your home, buy a multi-purpose extinguisher, which you can use on all types of home fires. You want it to be large enough to put out a small fire, but not so big that it is hard to handle.
6. Read the instructions and get familiar with the parts and how to use it. Don't wait until something catches fire.
7. Keep your fire extinguisher close to an exit.
8. Keep your back to an unblocked exit when you are using your extinguisher on a fire. You want to be able to escape easily if things get out of hand.
9. If smoke fills the room, leave immediately.

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