In the event of a fire,the correct use of a fire extinguisher,could mean the difference between suffer a minor loss or a major one there are several things to consider when using fire extinguishers,you must know the class of fire involved and the correct type of fire extinguisher to use.

Classes of fires and fire extinguishers.

Class A fire

Involves ordinary combustibles such as paper,wood,cloth,rubber or plastics,the common extinguishing media is water or dry chemical,these types of extinguishers are usually placed in and around buildings.

Class B fire

Flammable liquids,grease or gases are covered under this category,common extinguishing media are foam,carbon dioxide or dry chemical,these types of extinguishers are usually found in vehicles or mounted/or placed beside machinery,equipment and containers' flammable liquid.

Class C fire

Live electrical fires are Class C fires,co2 or dry chemical extinguisher should be used, however the actual burning product may be class A items.Class D fire burning-materials include combustible metals such as magnesium and sodium,special extinguishing agents approved by recognized testing laboratories are needed when working with these metals.

Responding to fires responding to fires,when responding to a fire,sound the fire alarm,call the local fire department immediately,follow your company's procedures on responding to fires,attempt to fight the fire only if you know the type of combustible material burning,you have been trained to use the fire extinguisher correctly and if the fire is still in the beginning stage.If the fire gets too large or out of control,evacuate immediately, remember P-A-S-S when using an extinguisher,p=pull,pull the locking pin before using the fire extinguisher,A=aim;aim the fire extinguisher at the base of the fire,not at the flames or smoke,S-squeeze,squeeze the lever of the fire extinguisher to operate and discharge S-sweep sweep the fire extinguisher back and forth at the base the fire - extinguish,most extinguishers will only allow about 10 seconds of extinguishing media.

Prevention is the key when it comes to firefighting,good housekeeping proper storage procedures and safe work practices will go a long way,toward reducing the likelihood that a fire will destroy valuable property,or injure either you or a fellow employee.