Posted on 26th Feb 2014 @ 10:35 PM

The first thing that anybody should know about using a fire extinguisher is that if you are in any danger get out stay out and leave it to the fire service, never put yourself at risk under any circumstances.

Fire Extinguishers Designed for Small Fires

All of the fire safety equipment supplied by Discount Fire Extinguishers is designed to be used for extinguishing small fires in emergencies. They are not for large fire incidents where the fire service should be contacted as soon as possible. A fire extinguisher is a hand-held cylindrical pressure vessel that contains an agent to extinguish the fire. At some point in your life, there might come a time when you are faced you a small fire to deal with, it is essential to know about how to use a fire extinguisher in this situation.

The Fire Extinguisher Acronym PASS Will Help You Remember

Before ever using a fire extinguisher you must check whether you are capable of using it, locate the exit point to be used in case you need it,

When you do need to use a fire extinguisher just remember the Acronym PASS!!

• PULL the fire extinguisher safety pin
• AIM the fire extinguisher hose at the base of the fire standing at a safe distance
• SQUEEZE the fire extinguisher lever to discharge the extinguishing agent
• SWEEP the fire extinguisher hose across the base of the fire from side to side

There are many types of hand-held fire extinguishers available from Discount Fire Extinguishers that also vary in size and they all have differing usage areas. For example you should not have a water fire extinguisher in a computer room where any fire is most likely to be electrical; this could cause more damage and even loss of life. Instead you should ensure you have a CO2 fire extinguisher instead.

Advice for the use of and placement of fire extinguishers can be obtained from the Health and safety executive or the fire service.