Fire Extinguishers

How to choose, maintain and use a fire extinguisher

A small fire can engulf a building in minutes. According to John Tuck, Captain and Fire Prevention Officer for the Parry Sound Fire Department, portable fire extinguishers can put out small fires or reduce a fire sufficiently to allow escape. Here are some tips from John.

ABCs: Fire extinguishers are categorized based on their ability to fight different types of fires. John suggests a portable “ABC” rated extinguisher. This type can be used for most small household fires including trash, wood, paper, flammable liquids and electrical blazes.

Size Matters: The weight on a fire extinguisher refers to the amount of chemical inside, while the canister adds several pounds. For household use, John recommends an extinguisher with 5 pounds of powder, which typically weighs about 10 pounds total.

Refillable vs Single Use: Rechargeable fire extinguishers can be reused after refill by a professional, while single use extinguishers are not refillable. John recommends reusable extinguishers as they have higher quality metal parts that are less prone to leakage than disposables with plastic parts.

Keep It Current: Extinguishers lose pressure over time and require annual servicing. John told me that the Parry Sound Fire Department provides a recharging service. You can drop your fire extinguisher off on Tuesday mornings for inspection and recharge for approximately $10. (Call first: 705-746-2262.)

Location, Location, Location: For an extinguisher to be effective, it must be quickly and easily reached. John suggests mounting the extinguisher away from potential hazards, near an exterior door to ensure safe exit.

Brand Recommendation: Although there are many good models available, John has high praise for the “Amerex B500 5lb ABC Dry Chemical” device. Refillable, reliable, equipped with metal valves, a hose and nozzle, it has 5 pounds of powder, weighs 10 pounds, and has a 14-second discharge at a range of 9–15 feet.


Using your extinguisher

Ensure that everyone knows how to use your fire extinguisher. Speed and accuracy are important as most portable extinguishers discharge in less than 10 seconds with a range of under 10 feet. Protect yourself at all times, keep your back to the exit, stand 6–8 feet away from the fire and follow the PASS procedure:

1. Pull the safety pin.

2. Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire, not at the flames.

3. Squeeze/press the trigger while holding the canister upright.

4. Sweep the extinguisher from side to side until it runs dry.

Know When To Go: If the fire is not out after using the extinguisher, safely back out of the area, get outside, close the door and get help.