When to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Your fire sprinkler system is designed to take care of a large fire should one break out in your commercial building or office, but what about a small fire? Fire extinguishers are an important part of fire protection for this very purpose. As a business owner, you and your employees should know when it is the appropriate time to use a fire extinguisher and how to properly use it.

So, when should you actually use the fire extinguisher? The obvious answer is when there is a fire, however, using one without the necessary precautions could actually put you and your employees at risk. Before you start spraying, ensure that the fire is a contained one and that it is not spreading in the surrounding area. You should also make sure that the room is not totally filled with smoke before using the extinguisher. It is also best to evacuate the building just in case the fire spreads and contact the fire department. The safety of you and your employees or occupants is the number one priority.

Using the extinguisher sounds like it is very straightforward, but in the event of an emergency, your mind might go blank. This is why it is important that you and your employees are trained and ready to P.A.S.S, or pull, aim, squeeze, and sweep!

1. First pull the pin that is located at the top of the fire extinguisher. This will release the lock and allow you to discharge the spray.
2. Then aim the nozzle of the extinguisher at the base of the fire. Do not aim at the flames, as they will blow around and spread, which could cause even more damage.
3. Slowly squeeze the lever of the extinguisher to release the spray.
4. Using a sweeping motion, cover the area from side to side until the fire is put out. Wait a few seconds to ensure that the fire does not reignite.

At A Total Solution, Inc., we offer fire extinguisher inspections, maintenance, installations, repairs, and even emergency service. We use service dispatching software to keep a record of when your next inspection is due, and we will even call you so schedule it before the due date. We will install extinguishers and signage in all kinds of occupancy buildings and will perform any necessary repairs. All of our technicians have taken the required 40-hour fire extinguisher course at the Florida State Fire College.

For more information on our fire extinguisher services, contact our experts today!