How to Aim & Use a Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguishers work by interrupting an element of the fire triangle. According to the Fire Extinguisher website, there are actually four elements to a fire: heat, oxygen, fuel and the chemical reaction between them. There are five classes of fires -- A, B, C, D and K -- and more than nine different types of fire extinguishers, each intended for use with a specific kind or kinds of fire. Using the wrong extinguisher type on a fire is dangerous, so be sure to read the labels on fire extinguishers in your home and workplace to determine what class of fires each can be used on. The Fire Extinguisher website notes that the multipurpose dry chemical extinguisher is the most widely used extinguisher. It is capable of extinguishing class A, B and C fires.

• 1

  Determine if you have the correct extinguisher to use on a particular fire before ever using an extinguisher. The Fire Extinguisher website recommends that you familiarize yourself with the fire extinguishers around you and practice picking one up and aiming the hose or nozzle. Never pull the pin or squeeze the lever during practice if the seal is broken, as the extinguisher will lose pressure.

• 2

  Pull the pin at the top of the canister if you're sure you have the right kind of extinguisher. Release the lock latch or press the puncture lever if required before pulling the pin.

• 3

  Aim the nozzle or hose at the base of the fire.

• 4

  Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent.

• 5

  Standing a safe distance away -- the Ravenna, Ohio, Fire Department recommends 6 to 8 feet -- sweep the nozzle or hose of the fire extinguisher and spray side to side. Spraying at the base of the fire and spraying side to side as it diminishes will put the fire out. Turn the extinguisher off and watch carefully for reignition.