Fire Emergencies
There are three things required to create a fire:
- fuel
- ignition source
- oxygen
There are five different classes of fires:
- A. Ordinary Combustibles (paper, wood)
- B. Flammable or Combustible Liquids or Chemicals (ether, gasoline)
- C. Energized Electrical Equipment
- D. Combustible Metal (magnesium)
- K. Kitchen (grease)
There are several types of fire retardants used in fire extinguishers, including sand, water, carbon dioxide, dry chemical. Extinguishers are rated for the class of fire they extinguish. This information should be clearly listed on the side of the extinguisher. You should never use an extinguisher unless it is rated for the class of fire involved. For example, using a water fire extinguisher, rated for a Class A fire, to put an energized electrical fire (Class C) could result in electrocution and⁄or serious injury.
Use the P.A.S.S. method to operate a fire extinguisher.
- P. Pull the pin
- A. Aim the extinguisher nozzle at the base of the fire
- S. Squeeze trigger while holding the extinguisher upright
- S. Sweep the extinguisher from side to side
Never fight a fire:
- If the fire has spread beyond where it started
- If you can’t fight the fire with your back to an escape route
- If the fire can block your only escape
- You don’t have adequate fire fighting equipment (the right type of extinguisher)
In case of fire:
- Never block access to fire extinguisher
- Never block a door, aisle or egress
- Be aware of ignition sources when working with flammable chemicals
- Always have the proper type of extinguisher available