According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics fires and explosions accounted for 3% of workplace fatalities in 2007.

Fire extinguishers can help put out small, incipient fires when used by well-trained employees. But this is only successful if a company has charged fire extinguishers, close at hand, large enough and rated for the type of fire occurring.

Portable fire extinguishers are classified to indicate their ability to handle specific classes and sizes of fires. 

Class A extinguishers are used on fires involving ordinary combustibles—wood, cloth and paper.

Class B extinguishers are used on fires involving flammable liquids and grease.

Class C extinguishers are used on electrical fires.

Most portable fire extinguishers are multi-purpose (ABC) Dry Chemical which are appropriate for extinguishing all fires anticipated.

Discharge Time – Useful Range

Dry chemical types have an effective range of approximately four to 15 feet. Contents can be discharged within 10 to 18 seconds.

Basic Operation (PASS)

Pull the safety pin (usually a twist-pull action).

Aim (the nozzle, horn, or hose) at the base of the fire.

Squeeze the trigger handle.

Sweep slowly from side to side (watch for re-flash).

Never re-hang an extinguisher, even if used for only a few seconds.

Notify the Safety Officer once a fire extinguisher has been discharged.

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