Fire Extinguisher

Estero Fire Rescue

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When and How to Use a

Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguishers should be a staple in every home and business fire safety plan, however, it is not always appropriate to use them—even when fire is present. The most import thing to remember is that safety is your #1 concern. Don’t lose sight of the importance of immediate evacuation—fire spreads rapidly and within minutes, your home or business could become a raging inferno. Delays in evacuation could be tragic. To protect yourself and others, keep these important safety tips in mind when deciding whether to use a fire extinguisher:

	Get everyone out first and close the doors to slow the spread of the fire.
	Fight fire with an extinguisher only if everyone is out of the house and the fire is still small. For example, if the fire is still confined to a wastebasket, chair, or stove, the use of a fire extinguisher may be appropriate. Aim the nozzle at the base of the flames and use a sweeping motion, starting 6-8 feet from the fire.
	Never let the fire get between you and an escape route.

When in doubt, get out and dial 911.

If you buy only one extinguisher for your home, it’s best to choose a multipurpose “ABC” or dry chemical extinguisher. Home extinguishers should be stored in the kitchen, near the stove.

Estero Fire Rescue offers free courses in the use of fire extinguisher to area businesses.

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