Fire Extinguisher Placement, Use, and Safety
Having a Fire Extinguisher in your property is a fantastic option towards protecting against the unexpected. This is however just the first step towards being protected by this additional safety device. There are 3 basic keys once you have your fire extinguisher that will ensure you are protected and as safe as can be.
It is imperative that fire extinguishers are placed in locations that are accessible, safe, and free from risk. If you have a single extinguisher, this should be placed in an area that is accessible to the kitchen as most fires will occur in the kitchen area. Do not place the extinguisher too close to the stove as if there is a fire from the stove, you will not be able to reach it without risk of burning yourself. Also, do not place the extinguisher too far away on anywhere that is covered or makes it hidden. The recommendation is that the extinguisher should be in a location that is within 10 seconds of being able to grab it and start using it on the fire. We at EMC Property Management recommend placing the extinguisher either in a pantry or at the front closet as these are locations that are usually close enough to the kitchen without being too close so that you are at risk of exposure when accessing to use. If you have 2 extinguishers, the second extinguisher should be placed near the furnace/mechanical room as this is the second most likely place for a fire to start. Similarly, keep it close but not right at the furnace as you want to be able to access it but not at risk of exposure to the fire.
PLACEMENT
It is imperative that fire extinguishers are placed in locations that are accessible, safe, and free from risk. If you have a single extinguisher, this should be placed in an area that is accessible to the kitchen as most fires will occur in the kitchen area. Do not place the extinguisher too close to the stove as if there is a fire from the stove, you will not be able to reach it without risk of burning yourself. Also, do not place the extinguisher too far away on anywhere that is covered or makes it hidden. The recommendation is that the extinguisher should be in a location that is within 10 seconds of being able to grab it and start using it on the fire. We at EMC Property Management recommend placing the extinguisher either in a pantry or at the front closet as these are locations that are usually close enough to the kitchen without being too close so that you are at risk of exposure when accessing to use. If you have 2 extinguishers, the second extinguisher should be placed near the furnace/mechanical room as this is the second most likely place for a fire to start. Similarly, keep it close but not right at the furnace as you want to be able to access it but not at risk of exposure to the fire.
USE
It is all too common to place the extinguisher and then forget about it. It is important to take it out of the box, read all instructions for use, and ensure you are clear on how to operate the extinguisher should you need to. When Fire Extinguishers come new, there is a plastic factory ring that holds the pin onto the unit. This should be removed immediately upon unboxing the extinguisher so that if you need to use it, this does not get it the way. There is a safety pin that will protect from misfire after the plastic ring is removed. Use the acronym P.A.S.S. when operating an extinguisher.
P - Pull the pin
A - Aim the nozzle or hose
S - Squeeze the lever/handle
S - Sweep back and forth at the base of the fire
SAFETY
In order for the extinguisher to be ready for use, you must keep it in an obvious, easy to locate location off the floor and away from access to pets or children. Keep it away from exposure to high temperatures and from objects that might fall, puncture, or damage it. Extinguishers can be checked for charge at regular intervals to ensure they are properly pressurized for use by looking at the gauge. The arrow should be in the green section of the pressure gauge.
If you need a little more info on extinguisher safety to feel prepared, WATCH THIS VIDEO.
Extinguishers will help protect in the unexpected emergencies. Most people will never have to use an extinguisher, but by knowing PLACEMENT, USE, and SAFETY, you will be well equipped should the need arise to protect yourself.
Comments
Post a Comment