Correct Usage of Fire Extinguishers
"Oops! There's a fire!"
In such a moment, will you panic and look for water, or calmly pick up a fire extinguisher? Don't underestimate this little red device-it's a "life-saving tool" in the early stages of a fire! Today, we'll teach you how to use a fire extinguisher correctly. It's simple and easy to learn, and you'll get the hang of it at a glance!
Step 1: Carry
Before use, check if the pressure is normal. Observe the fire extinguisher's pressure gauge: if the pointer is in the green zone, it means the internal pressure is normal, and the extinguisher is in a safe, usable state. If the pointer falls in the red zone, it indicates insufficient pressure-you must replace or send the extinguisher for repair immediately, and never continue using it.
Step 2: Pull
Remove the safety pin. The safety pin is a metal pin located at the fire extinguisher's valve, and its function is to lock the operating handle. When using the extinguisher, grasp the ring of the safety pin and pull it out firmly. This is a prerequisite for activating the fire extinguisher; otherwise, pressing the handle will not trigger the internal mechanism.
Step 3: Grip
Grasp the nozzle, maintain a safe distance of at least 2 meters from the fire, and ensure you are upwind of the fire source. Staying upwind can effectively prevent exposure to smoke and flames, which is key to ensuring the safety of the person operating the extinguisher.
Step 4: Squeeze
Squeeze the handle and spray the extinguishing agent directly at the base of the flames. Accurately targeting the bottom of the burning material is crucial to interrupting the combustion chain and extinguishing the fire effectively. Stay calm during the operation, and your actions should be decisive, steady, and accurate.
● Attention
(1)Maintain a safe distance: Do not get too close to the fire.
(2)Pay attention to wind direction: Always stay upwind.
(3)Prioritize key areas: Extinguish the fiercely burning parts first.
(4)Ensure an escape route: Keep a clear retreat path while putting out the fire.
(5)Call for help promptly: Dial the 119 fire emergency number at the same time.
● When Should You NOT Use a Fire Extinguisher?
(1)The fire has spread to the ceiling.
(2)The fire extinguisher cannot effectively control the fire.
(3)There is no available escape route.
(4)You do not understand the nature of the fire source.
(5)You have no experience using a fire extinguisher and no one to guide you.
● Daily Maintenance Recommendations
(1)Check the pressure gauge once a month.
(2)Store the extinguisher in an easily accessible location.
(3)Avoid placing it in direct sunlight or corrosive environments.
(4)Participate in regular fire safety training and practical drills.
Learning to use a fire extinguisher is a basic safety skill that everyone should master. We hope this article helps you learn the correct usage method-but we hope even more that you will never have to use it. Safety is no small matter; prevention before a disaster occurs is always the best strategy!
