Fire Extinguisher – The Do’s and Don’ts in Handling and Maintenance

We all have different ways to fight fire. Sometimes we prefer prevention rather than fighting it. Even though there are many ways to prevent this incidence from happening, fire accidents still occur. People still get hurt, loose their homes or even lives in the process. That is why people buy devices to ensure that small incidences of fire will not turn out big to the point of being destructive. Some people do survive with the aid of these devices

The presence of a fire-protecting device is important in making a place fire safety. Despite the fact that is mandated by building codes and standards to have them around, people still get them for the reason of fire safety. Even people owning their homes, buy them for the reason that even at home, fire can be a big risk to use. Your gas tanks or pipelines, grillers, burners, heaters and other electrical devices are all fire hazards. Although, these devices may not be used at all times, having them can be a plus in case of fire emergencies.

There are many types of devices that you can buy in the market and they also have different indications. Actually, these fire-protecting devices are commonly referred to as fire extinguishers. With these devices, there are certain things to keep in mind when using them. Take note of the dos and donts below:

DOs

1. read the instruction manual to understand the use of the device.

2. check the rating or classification of the device to know the kinds of fire it is applicable.

3. follow the pneumonic PASS in extinguishing the flames

4. Maintain a safe distance when extinguishing the flames.

5. put signs and indicators on the location of the device. Make sure that they can be seen easily. They should also be accessible.

6. Hang them on walls or use protective cabinets to keep them.

7. undergo proper training for proper handling of a fire extinguisher as set by the OSHA or Occupational Health and Safety Administration. Follow also strict rules set by the NFPA or standards and codes set by them for these devices.

8. recharge the equipment after use and follow maintenance schedule.

DONTs

1. use them if you have no idea on how to operate them. You will just put it into waste.

2. use water agents on grease and oil fires or use dry chemical extinguishers to electrical devices or anything with metal because it is corrosive.

3. aim at the flames of the fire.

4. stand too close to the fire or even plan to walk on those extinguished areas.

5. put them on areas where fire is most likely to happen making them unreachable.

6. leave them on corridors or any anything that is highly magnetic.

7. violate the standards because even with their presence you might still be at risk or more prone to the dangers of fire.

8. play with the device or even play with its substances use because of the possibility of injuring you.