FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
Important Facts- Not all fire extinguishers are for all fires.
- Water fire extinguishers are useful for fire involving wood, paper, fabric and performers. But must never be used on liquid fuel fires as they will spread the fire or worse. Also water is a good conductor and so a poor choice for electric fires.
- CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) extinguishers are good for fire props and electric fires. They leave no residue and can be used time and again until they run out. But they are for small fires only.
The key to remember is PASS -- Point, Aim, Squeeze and Sweep.
- Hold extinguisher upright. Twist and/or pull ring pin.
- Remove and grasp the base of the nozzle/horn. Start back 8 to 10 feet and aim at the base of the fire.
- Squeeze lever and hold it open.
- Sweep slowly from side to side.
Fire
Extinguisher Types:
| Extinguisher Type | Characteristics | Size | Horizontal Range | Discharge Time |
| Dry
Chemical Type: BC |
Sodium Bicarbonate or Potassium Chloride. Discharges a white or bluish cloud. Leaves residue that must be thoroughly cleaned after extinguishment. Dry chemical will lose gas after a single discharge | 2 - 10lb. | 6 to 10 ft. | 8 to 25 sec. |
| Multipurpose Dry Chemical Type: ABC |
Basically Ammonium Phosphate. Discharges a yellow cloud. Leaves residue that must be thoroughly and quickly cleaned after extinguishment. Dry chemical will lose gas after a single discharge. | 2.5 - 10lb. | 5 to 10 ft. | 8 to 25 sec. |
| Foam AFFF Type: AB |
Basically water and detergent. A chemical agent when discharged forms a foamy solution. Protect from freezing. | 2.5 gallon | 20 to 25 ft. | 30 sec. |
| Carbon Dioxide (CO2):
Type: BC |
Basically an inert gas that discharges a white vapor. Leaves no residue. Non-freezing. | 5
- 10lb. 15 lb. |
3
to 8 ft. 3 to 8 ft. |
8
to 12 sec. 12.5 sec. |
| Water
Type: A |
Basically tap water. Discharges a solid stream. Protect from freezing. | 2.5gallon | 30 to 40 ft. | 1 min. |
