Owning a fire extinguisher can help you protect your property and potentially save your life. It’s a safety device that should be in every home and business.
However, you need to know how to use it, where to store it and how to properly maintain it. Here’s everything you need to know about fire extinguishers. How to use it It’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the instructions on your fire extinguisher. In a fire, smoke can overtake you quickly, so every second counts. Memorize the basic steps of how to use a fire extinguisher by remembering the acronym “PASS.” Each letter indicates a step you should take: ● P: Pull the pin. Every fire extinguisher has a pin located close to the trigger that prevents accidental discharge. Remember to keep the nozzle aimed away from you at all times. ● A: Aim low. The base of the fire is the area you need to target. Aiming at flames in the air will do nothing to extinguish them. ● S: Squeeze the trigger. Once you’re pointing the nozzle at the base of the fire, gently squeeze the trigger. ● S: Sweep from side to side. As the fire extinguisher is discharging, move the nozzle in a sweeping motion from side to side. Cover the entire base of the fire to ensure it’s out. Where to store it. It’s best to keep fire extinguishers in the kitchen, garage and basement. Ideally, they should be stored near doorways and in plain sight so they’re easy to access. Hiding a fire extinguisher in a closet or somewhere else that’s out sight is inadvisable. How to inspect it It’s important to ensure that the fire extinguishers you own are fully functional. Get them inspected annually by a certified technician. You should also regularly check your extinguishers for signs of damage and corrosion and make sure they’re charged and ready to use. Additionally, check the date on the inspection tags and lift the extinguishers to feel if they’re full. When to evacuate Use a fire extinguisher only if a fire is in its initial stages. If you’re unsure, get out of your home as soon as you can, and call 911 once you’re safely outside. Protect your property with insurance Homeowner’s insurance can help cover you against the damages caused by a fire. If you need home or business insurance in Nova Scotia, the insurance specialists at Eisenhauer Insurance Inc. can help. Contact us today to learn more or get a free quote.