How to Use a Fire Extinguisher - Fire Safety Training

Summary

This video script outlines key safety guidelines for operating a fire extinguisher. It explains the three elements of fire—fuel, oxygen, and ignition—and emphasizes removing any of these to stop a fire. The four fire categories (Class A, B, C, D) are described, along with steps to operate a fire extinguisher, including pulling the safety pin, aiming at the base, and sweeping the hose. Important precautions are highlighted, such as not using water on electrical fires and handling CO2 extinguishers with care. Viewers are urged to call emergency services if the fire is uncontrollable.

Takeaways

• 🔥 Fire occurs due to three main factors: fuel, oxygen, and a source of ignition.
• 🚫 By removing any one of these three elements (fuel, oxygen, ignition), the fire can be stopped.
• 📋 Fire is categorized into four classes: Class A (solid fires like wood and paper), Class B (flammable liquid fires), Class C (flammable gas fires like LPG), and Class D (metal fires).
• 🔌 In case of an electrical fire, always shut down the power source before addressing the fire.
• 🧯 To operate a fire extinguisher, first read the labels and instructions for proper use.
• 🔓 Pull the safety pin, point the hose at the base of the flames, and press the lever to release the extinguishing agent.
• ⬅️ Move the hose side to side to cover the fire surface until it is fully extinguished.
• 📞 Call emergency services immediately if the fire is beyond your control.
• 💧 Do not use water to extinguish electrical fires as it may cause electric shock.
• ❄️ Be cautious when using carbon dioxide extinguishers, as the hose and cylinder can become extremely cold and may cause cold burns.

Q & A

What are the three main components needed for a fire to occur?

The three main components needed for a fire to occur are fuel, oxygen, and a source of ignition.

How can a fire be stopped according to the transcript?

A fire can be stopped by removing any one of the three components: fuel, oxygen, or the source of ignition.

What are the four classes of fire mentioned in the transcript?

The four classes of fire are: Class A (solid fires like wood, clothes, rubber, and paper), Class B (fires caused by flammable liquids), Class C (fires due to flammable gases like LPG), and Class D (metal fires).

What should be the first step when using a fire extinguisher?

The first step is to read the labels and learn how to operate the fire extinguisher.

What is the correct method to operate a fire extinguisher?

To operate a fire extinguisher, pull the safety pin, aim the hose at the base of the flames, press the hand lever, and sweep the hose left and right across the fire until it is extinguished.

What should you do if the fire is beyond your control?

If the fire is beyond your control, you should call emergency services immediately.

Why should water not be used to extinguish fires on electrical equipment?

Water should not be used on electrical fires because it can conduct electricity and cause an electric shock.

What precautions should be taken when using a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher?

When using a carbon dioxide extinguisher, avoid touching the metallic parts because they can become very cold and cause cold burns. Handle the hose correctly without obstructing the access to the fire extinguisher.

What should you do if you do not know how to fight a fire?

If you do not know how to fight a fire, you should seek help immediately.

What is the importance of identifying the category of fire before using an extinguisher?

Identifying the category of fire is important because it determines the appropriate type of fire extinguisher and method to use. Using the wrong type of extinguisher could be ineffective or dangerous.