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Using a Fire Extinguisher Correctly

Accidents happen: no matter how much you try to prevent a fire from starting in your home, a mishap like this may still occur. However, if you know how to react correctly, you have a better chance of staying safe. This includes knowing how to use the required tools appropriately, for example, a fire extinguisher in order to deal with the situation. With this in mind, this post will go over a few tips you can follow to use a fire extinguisher correctly and suppress a house fire.

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Get to Know Your Fire Extinguisher

First, realize that there are different types of fire extinguishers, which means you should read the instructions in yours, get to know its components and its restrictions to use it appropriately. For instance, learn how much product it contains and how much fire it can put out when full.

Evaluate the Situation Before Acting

If a fire has started in your home, before you grab your extinguisher, evaluate the situation. Is this fire something you can deal with? If it’s not, evacuate your home and call emergency responders immediately.

Use the Fire Extinguisher Appropriately

Follow the tips below to use the fire extinguisher and suppress the fire as expected:

 

  • Stand at an appropriate distance from the fire (not too close or far away).
  • Pull out the pin from the fire extinguisher so you can press on the lever.
  • Aim the hose in the extinguisher at the base of the fire, not the flames.
  • Gently press on the lever to release the fire extinguishing product.
  • Grab the hose firmly and sway it from side to side to cover the whole fire
  • Once you’re done, wait to verify that the fire doesn’t reignites.

 

Deal with the Aftermath

After you’ve successfully suppressed the fire, make it a point to refill your fire extinguisher as soon as possible so it’s full in case you need in again. Likewise, call a professional property restoration team to deal with the aftermath if needed.

Trust in ProRestore DKI for Property Restoration in Grimes

If a fire or another mishap has damaged your home, trust that ProRestore DKI in Grimes will be able to repair it as fast as possible, so you can go back to normal. Call (888) 846-6505 for more information, or to get a free estimate!