What Is an ABC Fire Extinguisher?
Fire extinguishers are important to have around the home, workplace, and in any indoor public places. They’re necessary for emergencies and can make all the difference in stopping a fire before it spreads.
An ABC fire extinguisher is made mostly for consumer use to put out fires from flammable combustibles, gases, liquids, and minor electrical fires. The ABC stands for the three classes of fires the extinguisher is designed to put out.
It’s important that at least one family member in your home, and multiple people in your office, know how to use a fire extinguisher and have the basics down. In a fire emergency, you’ll need these skills to act fast and remain calm to prevent fire.
This article will talk about the basics of ABC fire extinguishers, and what you need to know to equip your home or workplace with the right fire safety tools.
Understanding the ABC Rating System
The mandated ABC rating system is used to classify a fire extinguisher’s effectiveness against types of fires. There are several types of fires that can occur, and different ways to put out a fire. The right fire extinguisher is required to put out the fire effectively.
The ABC extinguisher rating helps you to discern what fire hazards may be present in your home and what type of fire extinguisher you will need to effectively stop the fire from spreading.
The ABC rating stands for the three classes (Class A, Class B, and Class C) which each refer to different types of fires.
A Class A fire starts from ordinary combustibles, such as wood, cloth, paper, and rubber.
A Class B fire involves flammable liquids and gases, such as propane, oil, and gasoline.
Finally, a Class C fire is an electrical fire from appliances and electrical wiring.
The ABC rating will be written on the label of a fire extinguisher, so make sure you are purchasing the correct one for your home or workplace. Not all ABC fire extinguishers are suitable for all types of fires, and using the wrong kind of extinguisher can worsen the fire.
How to Use an ABC Fire Extinguisher
To be able to use your fire extinguisher in case of emergency, it’s important to properly maintain it in your home. Keep it in an accessible place and check it is still working at least once every month.
To use your fire extinguisher, pull the pin located on the handle at the top of the extinguisher. Aim the nozzle, standing at a safe distance away from the fire.
Then, squeeze the handles together to spray the extinguishing agent at the base of the fire. Make a sweeping motion from side to side to ensure you have covered the fire entirely.
Tips for Maintaining Your Fire Extinguisher
To properly maintain your fire extinguisher, follow these steps:
- Inspect your fire extinguisher regularly by performing a visual inspection, making sure to check its pressure gauge.
- Check the label for any expiry date, and make note of its last inspection date.
- Weigh and clean the extinguisher, cleaning out any discharge from the hose and checking for blockages.
- Ensure any wall mountings are secure and the extinguisher is not loose from the wall.
When to Call the Fire Department
A fire extinguisher can only go so far in fire prevention. While using an extinguisher can safely put out a fire before it begins to spread, you should still call the fire department so your home can be properly inspected after the fire is out.
If the fire has begun to spread and you are unable to stop it, exit the building immediately and call the fire department. Remember every second counts, and a fire extinguisher is useful in these scenarios.
How to Properly Dispose of an Expired or Used Fire Extinguisher
To properly dispose of an expired or used fire extinguisher, do not put the extinguisher in your regular rubbish or recycling bins. Dispose of them at your local recycling or waste disposal facility depending on local regulations. Check with your local fire safety services for accurate instructions for your region.
FAQs
How do I know if my fire extinguisher is still effective?
A fire extinguisher will last you anywhere from 10 to 12 years, but its life expectancy depends on a few factors. With regular weekly or monthly testing, and with regular maintenance, the extinguisher should be properly pressurized so it is ready to use, ensuring it is still effective for use.
How often should I inspect my fire extinguisher?
Your home’s fire extinguisher might start gathering dust, which is technically a good thing, since it has yet to be used. However, it’s important to maintain the integrity of the fire extinguisher, and that involves regular inspection. You should inspect your fire extinguisher once a month.
What should I do if my fire extinguisher is damaged or doesn't work?
If your fire extinguisher is damaged or doesn’t work, the best thing to do is return the fire extinguisher directly to the manufacturer. You can also reach out to your local fire safety experts depending on your region, and get a replacement fire extinguisher for your home or office.
How do I know if my fire extinguisher is the right size for my home?
If you’re wondering what size your fire extinguisher should be, do an assessment of your home’s area and the most likely places a fire may start. Kitchens, laundry rooms, and other areas may need to have a fire extinguisher close by. Some places may need a small fire extinguisher nearby, so it is easy to access.
A midsize or small room requires a 5 lb fire extinguisher. A large room requires a larger fire extinguisher, anywhere from 10 lb or larger.
Where should I store my fire extinguisher in my home?
A fire extinguisher should be ideally stored in a visible spot, no more than five feet from the ground. This makes it accessible for anyone to grab quickly in a fire emergency.
Keep it in a spot that is easy to access, like near an entryway on the ground floor of your home. Make sure every person in your household knows where the fire extinguisher is located, and run through basic fire safety training with them.
Ensure the safety of your home with our comprehensive guide. Visit ecenrodewelds.com today!