FAQ - Fire Extinguishers

Question: How does my fire extinguisher work?

Answer: Portable fire extinguishers apply an agent that will cool burning fuel, restrict or remove oxygen or interfere with the chemical reaction so a fire cannot continue to burn.

Every home should have at least one fire extinguisher. Consider where you might need fire extinguishers by identifying hazardous areas where fires are likely to start and what type of fire could occur in each area.

Extinguishers should be kept in a handy location but remote from the anticipated fire area. Everyone in the family should know where they are and how to use them.

An ABC fire extinguisher will extinguish all three classes of fire and is the best type to have in your home. Check your fire extinguisher for detailed instructions on how to operate your particular type.

For fires in ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, cloth, upholstery, or plastics, you can use water to extinguish the fire or a dry chemical extinguisher. For fires fueled by flammable liquids and gasses, kitchen greases, paint, oil, kerosene, gasoline or fires involving live electrical equipment or wires use a dry chemical or carbon dioxide extinguisher. If possible, cut off the power to electrical equipment first. Never use water on these types of fires.


This FAQ refers to the following subjects:
Services/Public Safety/Fire