Fire Extinguishers

If this is an emergency, dial 9-1-1. Do not wait.

Use an extinguisher only if:

The fire is small, confined, and not spreading.
Everyone else has left or is leaving the building.
The fire department has been called.
You can fight the fire with your back to a safe escape route.
The extinguisher matches the type of fire.
You know how to operate the extinguisher.

Do not fight a fire under any other circumstance. Instead, leave the building immediately, close the door behind you and call 9-1-1.

Types of extinguishers

There are three types of fire extinguishers available for home use. Fire extinguishers must be labelled to show the class of fire they can extinguish. Oshawa Fire Services recommends a multi-purpose A.B.C. type extinguisher for general household use.

Class A: Ordinary combustibles, including paper, wood, drapes and upholstery.
Class B: Flammable liquids such as gasoline, oils, solvents, paints and flammable gases.
Class C: Electrical fires involving energized electrical material such as power tools, appliances, televisions and electrical motors.

Fire extinguishers also have a number rating based on imperial units.

Type A fires:

1 would stand for 1 1/4 gallons of water.
2 would represent 2 1/2 gallons.
3 would be 3 3/4 gallons of water etc.

For type B and type C fire, the number represents square feet. For example, 2 would be two square feet, 5 is five square feet, etc.

Using a fire extinguisher

There is a simple acronym to remember to operate most fire extinguishers; the abbreviation is P.A.S.S. which stands for Pull, Aim, Squeeze and Sweep.

Picture Instructions to how to use a Fire Extinguisher

PULL out the locking pin, breaking the seal. Some extinguishers may use a different release device. Refer to your operator's manual.
AIM the nozzle horn (or hose) at the base of the fire about three metres (10 ft) from the fire.
SQUEEZE the trigger handle all the way, releasing the extinguishing agent.
SWEEP the material discharged by the extinguisher from side to side, moving front to back, across the base of the fire until it appears to be out. Keep your eyes on fire area. Repeat the process if the fire starts up again. Never turn your back on a fire even if you think it is out.

Limitations

Portable fire extinguishers have limited applications against small fires. When used correctly, an extinguisher can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or containing it until firefighters arrive. However, they do not replace the need to call Oshawa Fire Services. Always call 9-1-1 first when a fire occurs, no matter how small.

Fire extinguishers are not designed for use on large or spreading fires. Even on small fires, they are effective only under the following conditions:

The extinguisher must be rated for the type of fire being extinguished.
The extinguisher must be large enough for the fire at hand.
The extinguisher must be in good working order, fully charged and within easy reach.
The operator must be trained in the proper use of the extinguisher.
The operator must be physically capable of lifting, handling and operating the extinguisher.

Care of your fire extinguishers

Extinguishers require regular care. Learn how to inspect your extinguisher by reading your operator's manual and following the maintenance instructions. Remember to recharge reusable extinguishers and replace disposable models after every use.

Where should I install my extinguishers?

Install your extinguishers in plain view, above the reach of children, near an exit route, and away from stoves and heating appliances. Ideal locations for your extinguishers are in the kitchen, workshop, upstairs and at the top of a basement stairwell.