Fire extinguishers must be placed conspicuously and within easy reach so they can be accessed quickly.  Only try to put out a fire if you can do so without placing your life in danger.  Only try to put out a fire after the fire department has been called.  A small fire can turn into a large fire very quickly.  A few minutes can make a difference.  Before you begin to fight a small fire:

·                     Make sure that everyone has left or is leaving the area.

·                     Make sure the fire department has been called.

·                     Make sure your back is to a safe and unobstructed exit to which the fire will not spread.

There are four classes of fires.  All fire extinguishers are labeled, using standard symbols, for the classes of fires on which they can be used.  Most portable fire extinguishers are multi-purpose (ABC) which are appropriate for extinguishing a Class A, B or C fire.  

Class A.  Ordinary combustibles, such as wood, cloth and paper.  It
is very dangerous to use water or an extinguisher labeled only for Class A fires on an electrical fire.

Class B.  Flammable liquids, such as gasoline, oil and oil-based paint.

Class C.  Energized electrical equipment, including wiring, fuse boxes,
circuit breakers, machinery and appliances.

Class D.  Combustible metals, such as magnesium or sodium.

Depending on the size of the fire, stand about 10 to 20 feet away when using a fire extinguisher.  Portable fire extinguishers discharge faster than most people think, usually within 15 to 30 seconds.  Never rehang a fire extinguisher, even if its been used for only a few seconds.

When properly used, a portable fire extinguisher can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or containing it until the fire department arrives.  Portable extinguishers are not designed to fight a large or spreading fire.  Even against small fires, they are useful under certain conditions.

·                   The extinguisher must be rated for the type of fire you are
          fighting.

·                     The extinguisher must be large enough to put out the fire.

·                     The extinguisher must be within easy reach, in working order and fully charged.

Follow the four-step PASS procedure when using an extinguisher.

PULL the pin:  This unlocks the operating lever usually by a twist-pull action.

AIM low:  Point the nozzle at the base of the fire.

SQUEEZE the lever above the handle:  This discharges the extinguishing agent.

SWEEP from side to side:  Moving carefully toward the fire, keep the extinguisher aimed at the base of the fire and sweep back and forth until the flames appear to be out.  Watch the fire area.  If the fire reignites, repeat the process.