Smaller fires can often be extinguished quickly and effectively if a fire extinguisher is used correctly. Although it is easy to use, many people hesitate in an emergency because they feel unsure about how to use a fire extinguisher. Learning how to use fire extinguishers correctly at an early stage is crucial in order to act quickly and safely in an emergency. Fire safety training courses prepare employees specifically on how to use fire extinguishers correctly.
Where are fire extinguishers located in the building?
Fire extinguishers are regularly distributed throughout the building, often in corridors, and are clearly labelled with conspicuous, luminescent signs. These make the location recognisable from a distance. In addition, all locations are listed in the escape and rescue plan so that everyone can quickly find a fire extinguisher and use it safely in an emergency.
The correct use of fire extinguishers
- Pull the safety pin or loop out of the fire extinguisher.
- Strike the push button with your fist from above to spray the extinguishing agent under pressure (only with rechargeable extinguishers).
- Hold the handle of the fire extinguisher with one hand and the hose with the spray nozzle in the other hand.
- Approach the source of the fire carefully and pay attention to the range and strength of the extinguishing jet. Spray directly onto the source of the fire.
Important: When handling the fire extinguisher, note the differences between the various types and classes of fire extinguishers.
Download fire extinguisher instructions here ⬇️
How do you operate a fire extinguisher in detail?
1. wind direction: Pay attention to the wind direction and always extinguish with the wind. Spray the extinguishing agent into the embers, not into the flames.
2. wildfire: Always extinguish a wildfire from the front and bottom, not from the back or top. Always extinguish the embers, not the flames.
3. drip and flow fires: Extinguish from the point of origin to the burning pool. The source of the fire must be eliminated first.
4. several fire extinguishers: Extinguish larger incipient fires by having several people, each with a fire extinguisher, extinguish the fire at the same time. Pay attention to the wind direction and talk to each other, coordination is extremely important.
5. re-ignition: If the fire is extinguished at first sight, stay ready with the fire extinguisher in case a backfire occurs.
6. recharge the fire extinguisher: Inform the fire safety officer after using the fire extinguisher. Do NOT hang up the fire extinguisher. It must be reconditioned ready for use by a specialised company.
Use fire extinguisher
Use our free instructions on how to use fire extinguishers correctly (pdf). You are welcome to display these instructions at typical waiting points in the company, e.g. in the kitchen, in the break room or in the cigarette corner.
Are you interested in training in the correct use of fire extinguishers?
Fire extinguisher training provides the necessary safety to react calmly and effectively in the event of a fire. Participants learn how to use fire extinguishers correctly.
Employers are legally obliged to train their employees in fire protection and safety measures.
Do you still have questions about fire extinguishers or fire safety training?
Source: (1) https://patents.google.com/patent/US37610