Better Understanding Extinguishers

We see fire extinguishers every day, but how well do we understand them? Would the average Joe even know that fire extinguishers have a class? More than likely, very few people would know what class fire extinguisher that they have. In the case of a fire related emergency knowing where your extinguisher is and how to operate it can be a home, business or life saver. A fire can spread a lot in the time it takes for firefighters to arrive.

Owning and operating a fire extinguisher is an essential skill that everyone should have. In this video, we’ll analyze the Ansul Multi Purpose ABC Rated fire extinguisher. With its Class rating of ABC it is designed to handle any general fire that you are likely to encounter. So, what does each class mean? Class ABC extinguishers can handle the following types of fire.

• Class A extinguishers are made to handle ordinary materials such as plastic, cardboard, wood and paper
• Class B fires involve combustible or flammable liquids such as Grease and oil fires as well as kerosene and gasoline.
• Class C fires are categorized as electrical equipment, outlets and wires, circuit breakers and appliances.

So what can you find just by examining your fire extinguisher?

• You can find clearly pictured examples of the class of fire your extinguisher is made for on the side of your extinguisher
• A pressure gauge built into the handle
• A large easy to read name plate with instructions of how to use the Fire Extinguisher

This makes the Ansul Sentry stored pressure extinguisher an excellent choice of your protection.

Check out this how to video of how to put out a fire:

How to use a fire extinguisher:

1. Remove the ring pin (without pressing the push lever)
2. Remove the hose from the holder and place your finger across the nozzle tip to help guide the dry chemical stream towards the hazard
   
   (To Operate the Extinguisher)
    
3. Depress the push lever and discharge the dry chemical at the base of the flames while sweeping the nozzle from side to side

Far too often one of the steps in the instructions on the faceplate is ignored: Start 10 feet back and aim. This may sound silly but you do not want to be too close to the fire. Also, if you are not aiming at the flames base it can be harder to put out. Once the fire is out, look for any hotspots and secure the fire extinguisher once more.

If you follow the instructions on your fire Extinguisher and remember the things you have learned in the video, you can have confidence If the unfortunate event of a fire does take place. 

For more information contact a representative at County Fire Protection or Call Toll Free at 888-706-4237.