Yeah, I should have one and will get around to it soon, but…
Is a life-saving fire extinguisher readily accessible in your home? Heavy weight or bulkiness, complicated instructions or uncertainty when they should be used could be blockages.
Good news: Some of these life-saving devices have gotten easier to pick up and actually use with confidence!
In order to know whether to use a fire extinguisher or not, FEMA.gov (Federal Emergency Management Association) officials encourage people to prepare a preliminary checklist.
Laminate and post it right next to the fire extinguisher!
- Have I alerted others that there is a fire in the building?
- Has someone called the fire department?
- Am I physically able to use a fire extinguisher?
- Is the fire small and contained in a single object (like a pan or a wastebasket)?
- Are you aware that most fires produce toxic smoke?
- Do I have a clear escape route?
Use a fire extinguisher when all of these questions are answered “yes.” If you’re unsure about whether or not it’s safe to use a fire extinguisher, alert others, leave the building, and call 911 in the US or 102 in Israel, from a mobile or neighbor’s phone. It is not recommended that young children use fire extinguishers.
Simply: Pick up your fire extinguisher and proceed to PASS:
- Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.
- Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
- Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
- Swing the nozzle from side-to-side.
Now the big question: How do I know which one to buy, with so many models available? The CMBF doesn’t advocate for any specific company or model. We encourage you to click below to decide what options could work for you. * Do you need large or small ones? Stationary or portable ones? What type of extinguisher?
Actually read the instructions on how to store and maintain your extinguisher!
* https://www.safewise.com/resources/fire-extinguishers-buyers-guide/
(note: while listed on this site, we do not encourage children’s use of “kiddie” model)
Still hesitating? One of our readers shared that a fire erupted on her porch. While she had a fire extinguisher inside her home, she had no idea how to use it so ran next door for help. Thank G-d, they were able to put the fire out.
Enjoy the summer with confidence, knowing that you are now better equipped on how to select, maintain and use a fire extinguisher.
Chaya Malka, Director
Chaya Malka Burn Foundation
HOTLINE: 972 587 627 954
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Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
