Press Release: Choosing and Using a Fire Extinguisher

August 20, 2007 – Most Fires start small. It is at this stage that, if a fire extinguisher is handy, a fire could be put out or kept from spreading. You should only attempt to fight a fire with a fire extinguisher when it is small and in its early stage. If your exit could potentially be blocked by fire, do not attempt to fight the fire. Instead, get out of the building.
The Wilton Fire Department provides the following hints on purchasing and using a fire extinguisher:

• Most fire extinguishers operate as follows:
• Pull the locking pin.
• Aim at the base of the flames.
• Squeeze the handle.
• Sweep back and forth over the burning area.
• The contents of most extinguishers last less than 30-60 seconds. Aim carefully at the base of the flame.
• Fire extinguishers are meant only to fight small fires (no bigger around than a trash can). Fighting to large a fire can be dangerous.
• Whenever a fire occurs, get everyone out first and call 9-1-1. Then use your extinguisher if the fire is still small enough.
• All fire extinguishers are not alike. They are marked with the letters indicating the type of fire they can put out:
  • “A”—ordinary combustibles, such as wood, cloth, or paper
  • “B”—flammable liquids like gasoline, kerosene, oil, oil-based paints, and solvents
  • “C”—electrical equipment
  • “D”—combustible metals
• Purchase a multi-purpose extinguisher with a BC or ABC label for typical home use.
• Install extinguishers.
• Check the pressure gauge on your extinguisher periodically to see if it needs recharging. Look in the phone book for professionals to fill and recharge extinguishers.
• Always replace or refill a used extinguisher immediately. Never put it back empty. An empty extinguisher is dangerous for someone else to use.

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