Owens Corning
Fire Extinguishers for Every House
Every house should have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen, garage and workshop, and know how to use it. It's a simple safety precaution that can save untold damage and disaster. The folks at Underwriters Laboratories have some advice about using a household fire extinguisher that follows:

Plan ahead and become familiar with the extinguisher by reading the instruction manual and know its capabilities. Every adult in the house should know how to release the extinguishing agent. Check the manual for guidelines, including the proper distance between the extinguisher and the fire. Always aim at the base of the fire. By reading the manual, you'll become familiar with how it works and how to operate it.

There are 4 types of household extinguishers. It's important to use the right type of extinguisher, so it doesn't spread the fire instead of contain it.

Type A Extinguisher is intended for use on fires involving combustible materials such as wood, cloth, and paper.

Type B is for use on flammable liquid fires, including kitchen grease. NEVER use water on this type of fire.

Type C is for fires involving energized electrical equipment.

Type ABC works on all 3 types of fires listed above.

If a fire breaks out, your first step is the call the fire department and get everyone out of the house. If the fire is not spreading and is confined to a small area, use the appropriate type extinguisher. Know both your limits and the extinguisher's limits. Periodically inspect the extinguishers to determine if they need to be recharged or replaced. When using a portable extinguisher, keep your back to an unobstructed exit that is free from fire.


written by the editors of HouseNet
Copyright HouseNet, Inc.


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