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Belmont-San Carlos Fire DepartmentFire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers are required for every business within the Belmont-San Carlos Fire Department’s jurisdictional area. The type, size, and amount of fire extinguishers you will need in your business will be determined by the plans examiner before you can occupy the building. For homeowners it is highly recommended that you have a fire extinguisher within your home. Preferably in the kitchen were most fires occur. The size of the fire extinguisher is up to the homeowner; however the type is very important. A fire extinguisher for the kitchen should be an ABC type fire extinguisher. If there is a fire, sound an alarm, get everybody out, call the Fire Department from a safe location. Only try to extinguish small fires. If the fire is too large, get out and close all doors behind you! Fire extinguishers are designed as a First Aid extinguishing system only. Below are some helpful tips concerning fire extinguishers. It is important to remember that not every extinguisher works on all fires. Several types can work on two or even three types but no extinguisher will work on every fire. So make certain that you are protected by the correct extinguisher for the types of combustibles in the area. Combustible materials are divided into four classes: Class "A" – Ordinary Combustibles (wood, paper, cloth, rubber etc…) Class "B" – Flammable Liquids (fuel oil, gasoline, cooking grease, solvents etc…) Class "C" – Energized Electrical Equipment (wiring, fuse box, electrical motors etc..) Class "D" – Combustible Metals (Magnesium, sodium, zirconium etc…)
How to use a Fire Extinguisher:Before you start make sure that you understand the operating instructions of you extinguisher….
To help you remember these four actions use the word PASS PASS Extinguisher Tips:1. Always place yourself between the exit and the fire to ensure that you can withdraw if the fire does not go out. 2. Buy only an extinguisher which has been approved by a nationally recognized testing laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratory or Factory Mutual. 3. Familiarize yourself with the location and operating instructions of the extinguishers that are at your disposal. Remember: Never place yourself or others in jeopardy by attempting to extinguish a fire. In the event a small fire cannot be extinguished with the use of a portable fire extinguisher or the smoke presents a hazard to the operator, leave the area. The door to the area should be closed to confine and contain the fire. Activate the Fire Alarm or call 911. Wait outside at a safe distance away from the building for the firefighters to arrive. |
