2. Classes of Fire
• Extinguishers vary in size and type of
extinguishing agent used.
• Selection of appropriate extinguisher is
critical.
• Proper use reduces injury and property
damage.
3. Classes of Fire
• The classes of fire discussed in this
presentation is in line with OSHA regulations
6. Class A Fires
• Class A fires involve
items such as:
– Ordinary wood
– Rubber
– Household rubbish
– Natural vegetation
• Water is most common
extinguishing agent.
7. Class B Fires
• Class B fires involve
items such as:
– Flammable liquids and
gases
– Oil
– Grease
– Tar
– Some plastics
• Several agents can be
used.
8. Class C Fires
• Class C fires involve
energized electrical
equipment such as:
– Building wiring
– Circuit breakers
– Transformers
– Power tools
• Require agents that will
not conduct electricity
9. Types of Extinguishers
• Water
Used to cool burning fuel below its ignition
temperature
Intended primarily for Class A fires
10. Types of Extinguishers
• Dry chemicals
Contain variety of agents in
granular form
Ordinary models extinguish Class
A and B fires.
Multipurpose models extinguish
Class A, B, and C fires.
All can be used on Class C fires,
but residue can damages
electronics.
11. Types of Extinguishers
• Carbon Dioxide (CO2)Extinguishers
Rated for Class B and C fires
Extinguishes by enveloping fuel in a
cloud of inert gas
Also cools the burning material
1.5 times heavier than air
Colorless, odorless, nonconductive,
and inert
Is noncorrosive
Both an expelling agent and an
extinguishing agent
12. Use of Fire Extinguishers
• Simple to operate with basic training
• Six basic steps for extinguishing fires
– Locate the fire
– Select the proper extinguisher
– Transport the extinguisher to the fire
– Activate the extinguisher to release the agent
– Apply the extinguishing agent
– Ensure personal safety
• Practice and training are essential.
13. Locating a Fire Extinguisher
• Know the types and locations of
extinguisher.
• Know where extinguishers are located in
and around the work place.
• Have at least one extinguisher in your
home by your kitchen.
14. Basic Steps of
Fire Extinguisher Operation
• P-A-S-S acronym:
– Pull the safety pin.
– Aim the nozzle at the base of the flames.
– Squeeze the trigger to discharge agent.
– Sweep the nozzle across the base of the
flames.
15. Ensure Your Personal Safety
• Approach fire with an exit behind you.
• Have a planned escape route in case of
extinguisher failure.
• Never let fire get between you and a safe exit.
• After suppression, back away; never turn your
back on the fire.
• Watch fire for rekindle.