Section 1

When to Fight a Fire

Fire extinguishers are designed for small, contained fires. Before attempting to fight any fire, you must make critical decisions quickly.

🧯 Only Fight a Fire If...

Everyone is evacuating or has evacuated — Life safety comes first.
The fire department has been called — Always call 911 first.
The fire is small and contained — No larger than a small trash can.
You have an escape route — Never let fire get between you and the exit.
You have the right extinguisher — The wrong type can make fires worse.
You know how to use it — No time to read instructions during a fire.

🚨 When to Evacuate Instead

GET OUT if: the fire is spreading rapidly, there is heavy smoke, you're unsure what's burning, you don't have the right extinguisher, or your instincts say to leave. Your life is more valuable than any property.

Section 2

Types of Fires

Fires are classified by the fuel that's burning. Using the wrong extinguisher can be ineffective or dangerous.

Ordinary

Wood, paper, cloth, trash, plastics

Liquids

Gasoline, oil, grease, paint, solvents

Electrical

Energized equipment, wiring, appliances

Metals

Magnesium, titanium, sodium (industrial)

Cooking

Cooking oils, fats in kitchens

💡 Most Common Extinguisher

ABC-rated extinguishers work on Class A, B, and C fires and are the most common for homes and offices. Check the label on your extinguisher to know what fires it can fight.

Section 3

The PASS Technique

Remember PASS — the four steps to using a fire extinguisher effectively.

Pull

Pull the pin to break the tamper seal

Aim

Aim low at the base of the fire, not the flames

Squeeze

Squeeze the handle to release the agent

Sweep

Sweep side to side at the base until fire is out

🧯 PASS Tips

Stand 6-8 feet away — Move closer as the fire diminishes.
Aim at the base — Spraying flames doesn't put out the fuel.
Use short bursts — Most extinguishers last only 10-20 seconds.
Back away facing fire — Watch for re-ignition as you leave.

Section 4

Extinguisher Maintenance

An extinguisher that doesn't work when you need it is useless. Regular inspection ensures readiness.

🧯 Monthly Checks

Accessible: Not blocked, visible, easy to reach.
Pressure gauge: Needle in the green zone.
Pin and seal: Pin in place, tamper seal intact.
Physical condition: No rust, dents, or damage to hose/nozzle.
Instructions: Label legible and facing outward.

🔧 Professional Service

Fire extinguishers should be professionally inspected annually. After any use (even partial), have it recharged or replaced. Most extinguishers have a 5-12 year lifespan.

Section 5

Kitchen Fire Safety

Cooking is the #1 cause of home fires. Kitchen fires require special attention.

🧯 If a Pan Catches Fire

Turn off the heat — If safe to do so.
Cover with a lid — Slide a lid over the pan to smother flames.
Leave it covered — Don't remove the lid or move the pan.
NEVER use water — Water on grease fires causes explosive splashing.
Use a Class K extinguisher — If available, or a Class B for small grease fires.

🚨 Never Do This

NEVER throw water on a grease fire — it will cause a violent fireball. NEVER try to carry a burning pan outside — you risk spreading fire and severe burns. If the fire spreads beyond the pan, evacuate and call 911.