To learn more about Fire Extinguisher Basics Contact us or visit us online at safetyalliancebc.ca Fire extinguishers are everywhere, in public buildings, apartment blocks, and in all of our workplaces. Fire extinguishers have become part of the general backdrop of modern society. The BC Fire Code indicates specific requirements for the number and placements of extinguishers. In the workplace, fire extinguishers are tools and every worker who might be required to use one has to be trained in the safe operation of fire extinguishers. Fire extinguishers are also a very good piece of safety equipment to have in the home, in a car and on a boat where they may be required by Canadian boating legislation. There are four classes of fire extinguishers based on the type of burning material they can extinguish: • Class A Ordinary combustibles, such as paper, wood and fabrics. Extinguishing agent is normally pressurized water • Class B Combustible liquids, such as gasoline, diesel or solvents. Pressurized dry chemicals, such as sodium bicarbonate or mono-ammonium phosphate • Class C Electrical components which are still energized. The extinguishing agent can be any product that is non-conductive, such as carbon dioxide gas • Class D Flammable metals, such as magnesium or sodium. Extinguishing agent is normally a dry powder that is scooped out of a container and spread over the fire source As Class D fires are not normally encountered, except in specialized industrial applications, they are not considered in the following recommendations. The majority of fire extinguishers are a 5, 10 or 20 pound size. These extinguishers are normally equipped with a gauge that indicates at a glance if the extinguisher is adequately pressurized. The best practice is to purchase one or more multipurpose ABC class extinguishers in the appropriate size. A major benefit of an ABC extinguisher is that you do not have to worry if you have the proper extinguisher for the class of fire. Basic points to consider before attempting to fight a fire are: • Ensure the fire department is called and the fire area is evacuated immediately. • Ensure there is another person with a second extinguisher to back you up. • Ensure a safe, unobstructed exit route from the fire area for you and the backup person. • Be aware of the time limitation of a fire extinguisher being used by an inexperienced person - a 5 pound extinguisher will discharge in approximately 10 seconds, a 10 pound extinguisher in 20 seconds and a 20 pound in approximately 30 seconds. The process for using a fire extinguisher is referred to as the acronym PASS: PULL AIM SQUEEZE SWEEP Pull the safety pin from the handle Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire Squeeze the handle to expel the agent through the nozzle Sweep the nozzle from one side to the other of the burning material, working your way from the front of the fire to the back For more information on fire extinguisher requirements for your workplace, please visit: www.bccodes.ca/bccode_fire.htm Safety Facts: Fire Extinguisher Basics