The document provides rules and instructions for properly using and maintaining fire extinguishers. Key points include keeping extinguishers fully charged and inspected monthly, replacing any discharged extinguishers immediately, familiarizing yourself with locations of all extinguishers, and evacuating if a fixed fire system alarms or activates until the fire department gives clearance. Instructions are also given on selecting the appropriate type of extinguisher based on the class of fire.

1. RULES FOR EXTINGUISHING FIRES
1. Keep fire extinguishers fully charged, inspected monthly and serviced annually.
2. Replace discharged or partially discharged extinguishers immediately. Return them to the area designated for
recharging. Notify your supervisor of the incident requiring the use of fire extinguishers.
3. Familiarize yourself with the location of fire extinguishers in your area. All extinguishers must be located in
accessible, conspicuous places along normal paths of travel and exit. Portable fire extinguishers are to be placed
within 75 feet of work areas.
4. Evacuate an area immediately where a fixed fire extinguishing system (sprinkler or halon) alarm has sounded.
5. Do not enter areas where a fixed fire extinguishing system (sprinklers or halon) has activated until the fire department
has released the area.
6. Carbon tetrachloride, and chlorbromomethane, and methyl bromide fire extinguishers are prohibited. If you find one
of these types, it must be disposed of as hazardous waste (see Hazardous Materials).
HOW TO USE A FIRE EXTINGUISHER
1. Use appropriate extinguisher (see table below).
2. Hold extinguisher upright, pull pin, and lift handle.
3. Stand back 8 feet and aim at base of fire.
4. Press lever and sweep side to side.
5. Step away from fire when extinguisher is empty.
6. Never direct a stream of water on flammable liquids, electrical fires or metal
fires.
Fires are classified into four categories depending on the material causing the fire:
CLASS MATERIAL METHOD OF EXTINGUISHING
A Ordinary combustibles (wood, paper, cloth) Water or any of the following in Class B
or C
B Flammable liquids (gas, oil, grease, paint) & chemicals. Foam, carbon dioxide, dry chemical.
C Electrical fires (circuit breakers, switches) Carbon dioxide, dry chemicals. Halon
for computer fires.
D Metals such as magnesium or sodium. Carbon dioxide