Avoid the following mistakes when having a fire extinguisher.
When learning fire safety, it’s sometimes easier to understand what you shouldn’t do instead of learning what to do with a fire extinguisher. After all, most people learn the basic principles of fire protection. Although everyone knows to have an evacuation plan, to stop and roll, and to have a fire extinguisher, people make mistakes that make it worse. So, avoid the following mistakes when having a fire extinguisher.
Blowing on a Fire
You may think this is common sense, but it still needs to be corrected by most people. Many people think that blowing on a fire will put it out. However, this is true for minor flames, such as candles. When you blow on a candle, you separate it from its fuel source, the wick. Also, if you discover the beginnings of a fire in your home or business, please avoid blowing on it. Doing so will only make the flames burn hungrier and hotter.
Using Water
We all know water extinguishes fire, but it doesn’t work for all fires. For instance, let’s compare grease and electrical fires. You know how water and oil don’t mix well together? The same principle applies to a grease fire. When the water directly touches the flaming grease, it will explode or pop as they come into contact with one another. All this does is deliver flaming oil bits further throughout your kitchen.
Moreover, consider how water conducts electricity for electrical fires. Using water to extinguish an electrical fire is one of the worst fire-extinguishing mistakes because it can lead to electrocution.
Improper Fire Extinguisher Methods
It’s great to have a fire extinguisher in your home because every home should have one. But owning a fire extinguisher is another story; you must also know how to use it. In case you don’t know how to do it, be sure to pull the pin before trying to use it. Otherwise, it won’t work.
The second mistake people make when handling a fire extinguisher is where they aim it. Aiming at the flames is far less effective than seeking at the base of them. Remember, you want to target whatever is burning with the foam, not the fire.
Commercial and Residential Fire Prevention from Judd Fire Protection
If you want to ensure your home and business are safe throughout the year, trust Judd Fire Protection, LLC. We have over two decades of experience designing, installing, inspecting, and repairing residential and commercial fire protection systems. We serve clients throughout Maryland, Pennsylvania, Washington, D.C., Virginia, and West Virginia. If you are interested in finding out more about our services and protecting your home and business, give us a call at 410-871-3480.