How to Correctly Use a Fire Extinguisher

You should have a fire extinguisher in any area where there is the possibility of a fire. However, if the people nearby don’t know how to use the

extinguisher, this means it may not be as effective as you’d like. In the event of an emergency, many people fall back on what they have learned,

which may not include the correct usage of the fire extinguisher. 

Your employees should be trained in the proper use of a fire extinguisher and should understand how to put out a fire, as well as how to

determine if it is worth trying to put out or if it should be simply left to the professionals. 

Step By Step Fire Extinguisher Guide

Step 1: Pull the pin and break the seal. This is important as the extinguisher won’t work otherwise. Many people forget this step when they are

panicking in the face of the fire. 

Step 2: Aim at the base of the fire and avoid spraying just the flames. 

Step 3: Pull on the handle to dispel the CO2. It’s important to be careful with this as you can damage your skin from the cold in the extinguisher.

The plastic discharge horn can be quite cold if touched. 

Step 4: To put the fire out, continue to aim at the base of the fire and move the hose back and forth until it is completely out. However, if the fire

is out of control, you should back off and let the fire services take over. 

Employee Training

Training is exceedingly important. You can have small controlled fires in a space that is fire safe and allow your employees to practise using the

fire extinguisher they will have available to them. During Fire Safety Training, your employees will learn to identify fire risk factors, as well as how

to put them out once started. 

With employees who are fully trained in fire safety, your business will be a more secure area to work in. They will have the proper equipment and

the knowledge to use it. 

If you’re ready to set up fire training for your workplace, Ace Fire & Safety can help ensure that everything is taught correctly and that your

employees are ready for any type of emergency.