Fire can be extremely dangerous and potentially life-threatening, and you should always have access to a properly serviced fire extinguisher in your home and in your work place. You may know how to use the fire extinguisher, but it's important to know when and when not to tackle a fire.
Here are some basic rules on fire-fighting in the home and workplace.
Is the fire extinguisher safe and effective?
Before even thinking of taking on a fire yourself, you must be sure that the fire extinguisher you have available is the right one for the type of material that is burning. For example, a water fire extinguisher should never be used on an electrical fire. You must know how to use the fire extinguisher without having to pause to read the directions.
Carry out a visual inspection of all fire extinguishers each month to make sure that they are in good condition and that the pressure gauge is showing the recommended level, i.e. with the needle in the green zone on the gauge.
When should you tackle a fire yourself?
First of all, you need to be confident that the fire is very small and is not likely to spread. Remember that it only takes a few minutes for a minor blaze to double in size.
Always keep the exit to the room or building directly behind you so that the fire can't block your escape route if it becomes out of control. Don't be a hero; if the fire starts to spread quickly, leave at once and call the fire brigade immediately if they are not already en route.
Stand a few feet back from the fire; if you get too close, you risk getting burned. As the fire begins to recede, you can move closer.
Aim the extinguisher's jet at the very base of the fire, not the top. Targeting the base means that the originating accelerant will be doused by the extinguisher at the hottest part of the fire. Move the extinguisher in a sweeping motion to ensure that the extremities of the fire are doused, preventing it from spreading. Once the fire appears to be out, monitor the area until you are sure it won't reignite.
When should you NOT tackle a fire yourself?
Don't take on a fire that is already well-established and is spreading quickly. Evacuate the building immediately and call the fire brigade.
Even if the fire is a small one, don't attempt to put it out unless you are confident that you know what is burning. For a start, you could use the wrong type of extinguisher and there could be something explosive or highly toxic in the seat of the fire that you don't know about.
If there is a lot of smoke, evacuate the building and leave the job of tackling the fire to the professionals who are equipped with breathing apparatus. Inhaling toxic gases can be fatal and you could easily be overcome.
In conclusion
Only tackle a fire if it is a small one and you have the right kind of extinguisher. In any other case, leave the building and call the fire brigade.
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