Fire extinguishers are silent sentries, standing by in case of a fire. Make sure the extinguishers in your home are up to the job and you know how to use them.
Make sure you read and understand the instructions on your fire extinguisher before you need it.
Most household fire extinguishers have a gauge to indicate whether the unit is full and what to do if it isn't (refill, discard).
A fire extinguisher is an apparatus, usually containing chemicals, for putting out a fire. It extinguishes a fire by excluding oxygen so that combustion can no longer continue. The extinguisher must deliver a powerful spray of water, foam, or powder to smother the whole fire as quickly as possible, so its contents are pressurized. Some extinguishers produce a jet of carbon dioxide, a heavy gas that prevents burning.
Here's how to use the most common type of household fire extinguishers:
Pull the pin near the top of the extinguisher.
Approximately 6 feet away from the fire, aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.
Press the trigger and move the spray from side to side to smother the entire fire.
Continue spraying until the fire is completely out. Use a second fire extinguisher if necessary.
Don't reuse without recharging the extinguisher following the manufacturer's instructions, or replacing the unit.
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