F ORT M EADE F IRE D EPARTMENT F IRE E XTINGUISHER T RAINING

We don’t want this to be you! (and it’s an OSHA requirement) Why are we doing this training?

Goals of the Session Identify the different classes of fire Visually identify different types of extinguishers, and know how to select the correct one for each class of fire Know how to operate a fire extinguisher effectively Understand inspection, service, and maintenance requirements.

Fire Tetrahedron

Fire extinguishers come in many shapes and sizes

Some don’t even look like extinguishers

Pressurized Water Can Extinguisher Usually silver Hose with tapered, narrow tip Pressure gauge Accessible hex nut collar Most have air valve Removes HEAT from the fire FOR USE ON CLASS A FIRES ONLY

Dry Chemical Extinguisher Usually red May or may not have a hose Nozzles may be straight or slightly flared Pressure gauge Interrupts the CHEMICAL CHAIN REACTION YOU MUST CHECK THE LABEL TO DETERMINE THE CLASS OF FIRE IT IS RATED TO EXTINGUISH

Carbon Dioxide (CO 2 ) Extinguisher Usually red May or may not have a flexible hose Nozzles consist of a large horn No pressure gauge Excludes OXYGEN FOR USE ON CLASS B AND C FIRES ONLY

Wet Agent Extinguisher Usually silver Hose with angled, metal tip Pressure gauge Accessible collar Excludes OXYGEN and removes HEAT FOR USE ON CLASS A AND K FIRES

When in doubt, check the label

Which one should you have in your home?

P.A.S.S., not Toss, not Throw

Pull the pin and discard pull

Aim at the base of the fire

Squeeze handle Sweep side to side

Afraid you won’t remember? They provide instructions

Some Basic Extinguisher Guidelines REMEMBER, THE FIRST PRIORITY IS ALWAYS LIFE SAFETY! Make sure someone is calling the fire department prior to fighting the fire. Don’t delay emergency notification.

If the fire doesn’t go out after you use the first extinguisher, GET OUT! Do not attempt to use multiple extinguishers.

If the flames are bigger than you, GET OUT!

If you just aren’t sure, GET OUT!

How much time do you have to put the fire out? 20 pound extinguisher 25 – 30 seconds 10 pound extinguisher 17 – 20 seconds 5 pound extinguishers 12 – 15 seconds 2 ½ pound extinguishers 8 – 12 seconds

All Fires MUST be reported !!!

Where to Hang Extinguishers Where they are visible and easily accessible Along paths of exit travel 4-5 feet above floor level In or near kitchens and common areas

Monthly Inspections The extinguisher should be checked monthly – The extinguisher is present – The extinguisher is not blocked – The gauge is in the operable range – The pin and seal are present – The nozzle is not obstructed – The operating instructions are legible – The extinguisher is not damaged – Fill out the check sheet

Maintenance Requirements Dry-Powder Extinguishers – Annual inspection by certified technician – 6-year internal maintenance by certified technician – 12-year hydrostatic test Carbon Dioxide and Wet Agent Extinguishers – Annual inspection by certified technician – 5-year internal maintenance by certified technician – 5-year hydrostatic test

Home Extinguisher Maintenance The extinguisher should be taken down twice a year, turned upside down, and struck with a rubber mallet to loosen the powder If an extinguisher becomes damaged or loses its charge, replace it Any discharge of a fire extinguisher, no matter how minor, will require it to be replaced Any extinguisher older than 12 years must be replaced

For any questions or assistance please feel free to contact: Captain John Trottman (301)

LET’S PLAY!!!