How to properly use a fire extinguisher
What is Fire?
Fire is the chain reaction between Fuel + Heat + Air/O2.
How is Fire Extinguished?
Fire is extinguished by disrupting the chain reaction by eliminating any one or two of the elements.
What are the types of Fire?
Fire is generally categorised in:-
- Solid Fire
- Liquid Fire
- Gaseous Fire
- Dense Metal
- Electrical started Fire
- Kitchen or Fire from Fats
What is a Fire Extinguisher?
A fire extinguisher is a 1st Line of Defence against fire hazard. It’s used against active fire to extinguish or control undersized fires. This is a Life-saving device always used in emergency situations.
How is Fire Extinguishing Agents Made of ?
Fire extinguishing agents comes in a variety of solutions. ABC&E powder is generally made out of a mix of monoammonium phosphate and ammonium sulfate. Wet chemical extinguishers generally contain potassium acetate with potassium citrate or potassium bicarbonate. Foam extinguishers are made up of foam, water, and air. Co2 Cylinders Made of Co2.
How many types of Fire Extinguishers are there?
Generally there are 5 types of Fire Extinguishers:-
Powder: – ABC&E, BC
Clean Agent: – CO2 & HFC236fa (Fe36)
Water: – H2O, Water Mist
Foam: – AFFF, Foam Mist
Wet Chemical: –Potassium acetate, Potassium carbonate, or potassium citrate
Functioning of Fire Extinguisher
Principal functioning of any Fire extinguishers is by separating the fuel from the Air/oxygen. It Coats between the Fuel & Air/Oxygen & hence keeps both out of each other reach. Occasionally this coating also creates a Heat knock down effect.
What to Check before Operating the Fire Extinguisher ?
Before Operating a Fire Extinguishers You should always check the cylinder Body (Like it should not have any physical damage, leakage etc) & Pressure Gauze (It should be always be Green).
At what Distance should we stand for using Fire Extinguishers
Ideal Distance should be 8FT from the Fire Hazard for using a Fire Extinguisher.
how to properly use a fire extinguisher
The most common method for how to properly use a fire extinguisher is the PASS technique:-
P: – Pull the pin (To break the safety seal)
A: – Aim the extinguisher nozzle (or its horn or hose) at the base of the fire.
S: – Squeeze the handle/Leaver to release the extinguishing agent.
S: – Sweep from side to side at the base of the fire.
Please be assured that the Fire is 100% extinguished before leaving.
Common fire extinguisher mistakes
As we understand how to properly use a fire extinguisher , since we don’t get the chance to practice fighting fires on a regular basis, it’s easy to make basic mistakes when the time comes. Understand where the majority of people go wrong so you can stop making a mistake under pressure
- Don’t forget to follow the directions.
- Don’t use a fire extinguisher that isn’t the right type
- Make sure your fire extinguisher is in good working order
- Exits should not be overlooked
- Don’t keep it hidden




