Common Mistake of Handling Fire Extinguisher
Common Mistake of Handling Fire Extinguisher. Many people would know how to use a fire extinguisher to help in extinguishing fire, but how many people would actually know how to run one if fire accident happen? Education on how to use a fire extinguisher is scarce, and it can be difficult to make the right decisions in such high-pressure circumstances.
This article is going to detail all the basic slip-ups we have seen individuals make when utilizing a fire extinguisher, and will assist you with using one effectively in a crisis circumstance.
Not reading the instructions
Every fire extinguisher will have on it detailed instructions citing the exact steps and precautions needed to tackle a fire effectively and safely, and yet many people walk past these fire extinguishers every day without reading them.
Reading the instructions in the event of a fire is not the best idea. This is because not only will it use up valuable time, allowing the fire to grow, but it may also be difficult to fully comprehend the instructions in a state of panic.
We suggest taking the time out of your day today — or some time very soon — to read over the instructions on your fire extinguisher so you know exactly how to use it if needed.
There are various types of fire extinguisher, each which are suited to extinguishing certain types of fire, and so recognising the type of extinguisher you own and how to use it will be highly beneficial for when it is needed.
Standing too close
One of the most common mistakes people make when it comes to tackling a fire is standing at the wrong distance in relation to the blaze.
Getting the right distance is key; if you are too far away it is likely the fire will not be extinguished effectively but if you are too close the flames could spread even farther – in any case compromising your physical safety too. The recommended distance to stand is approximately 8 feet away from the blaze.
This gives you the best chance of successfully extinguishing the fire.
Where to spray the fire
Another common mistake people often make is to point the extinguisher nozzle at the top of the blaze and make their way down. The effective way to extinguish a fire is in fact the opposite: sweep from the bottom.
This is because the fuel that is feeding the fire will be at its base. Tackling it from here extinguishes the source of the fire, effectively preventing the fire from growing and making for a much more efficient dousing.
Pulling the pin
In a moment of urgency, forgetting or failing to remove the safety pin is all too common. But remembering to do so is vital, failing to pull the pin will render the extinguisher useless.
The pin is in the extinguisher as a measure of precaution — to stop people from pressing it down accidentally.
Without removing the pin you will be unable to use the extinguisher at a moment where time is precious.
At AITO Firework Sdn Bhd, we do sell fire extinguishers among an extensive range of fire safety equipment. In addition, we offer education and training to help you, your organization or your business to operate the equipment effectively. To inquire further, contact our friendly team today at 03 – 7831 4791.
