This presentation covers fire extinguishers, emergency planning, and what to

do in case of a fire.

1

Different types of fire extinguishers are designed to fight different kinds of

fire.

The four most common types of fire extinguishers are:

• Water

• Carbon dioxide

• Dry chemical, often referred to as multi-purpose

• Dry powder

2

Water extinguishers put out fires involving ordinary combustible materials

such as:

• Cardboard and paper

• Cloth

• Trash

• Wood

Water extinguishers will have the icon shown above on the label.

Think of A as standing for “ash”.

3

Carbon Dioxide or CO2 extinguishers put out fires involving:

� Flammable liquids such as:

• Oils

• Gasoline

• Paints and Solvents

These materials are indicated by the icon (shown on left) that will be

on the extinguisher’s label. Think of B as standing for “barrel”.

� Electrical Equipment such as:

• Fuse boxes

• Electrical wiring

• Computers and other energized electrical equipment.

These materials are indicated by the icon (shown on right) that will be

on the extinguisher’s label. Think of C as standing for “circuits”.

4

Dry-chemical extinguishers, also called multi-purpose extinguishers, are

suitable for use on fires involving:

• Ordinary combustibles

• Flammable liquids

• and Electrical equipment

Multi-purpose extinguishers will have all 3 icons on the label.

5

Dry powder extinguishers contain sodium chloride and are suitable for use on

fires involving:

� Metal chips, turnings or shavings

� Combustible metals such as:

• Magnesium

• Aluminum

• Titanium

Dry powder extinguishers are usually yellow and have an icon with the letter

D on the label.

6

Fire extinguishers should be checked monthly to make sure that they will

work properly.

Make sure that:

• The tamper seal is intact

• The pull pin is present

• The cylinder pressure indicator is within the green area

Some extinguishers do not have a pressure gauge. When the seal and the

pin are in place, assume that the pressure is adequate.

7

Fire extinguishers in the shop must be:

• Placed in visible and marked locations

• Not blocked or obstructed

• In good condition

• Suitable for the environment in which they are used and materials they

may be used on.

8

How to use a fire extinguisher:

• First, Pull the pin.

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

• Squeeze the handle or levers to release the extinguishing agent.

• Sweep the nozzle from side to side, aiming at the base of the fire, until

the fire is out.

When using a fire extinguisher, remember the word PASS.

9

In case of a fire, you should use a fire extinguisher only if:

• 911 has been called

• You’ve been trained on how to use a fire extinguisher

• The fire is small and easily contained

• You have an escape route. This means the fire should not be between

you and the exit.

• Your instincts tell you it is OK. If you don’t feel comfortable using the fire

extinguisher – DON’T.

10

In case of a fire, you may need to evacuate the building using emergency

exits.

Emergency exits should always be:

• Easily accessible and not blocked.

• Not locked from the inside when the shop is occupied.

• Marked with an illuminated sign that remains lit even when the power

goes out.

Know where the emergency exits are located!

11

Every business should have an emergency plan that includes procedures

that inform you what to do in case of a:

• Fire

• Workplace accident

• Medical emergency (such as a heart attack or loss of consciousness)

• Severe weather (such as tornadoes)

• Large chemical spill

Know what is expected of you if there is an emergency in your shop.

12

In summary:

� There are different types of fire extinguishers.

� When using a fire extinguisher remember the acronym PASS (Pull-Aim-

Squeeze-Sweep).

� Fire extinguishers must be visible and not blocked.

� Emergency exits must be unlocked and accessible.

� Emergency plans tell you what to do in specific situations.

13