Gainesville Texas Fire Department - Fire Extinguisher Tips

A fire extinguisher is your best defense against small, contained fires that have just begun to burn. Extinguishers can control flames until the fire department arrives, and buy you enough time to get out of a burning structure.

Every type of extinguisher is designed to fight a certain class or classes of fire. There are four classes which are determined by the type of fuel. Learning to identify these classes will help you select the right fire extinguisher. Using the wrong type of extinguisher can cause a fire to spread and place you in greater danger.

	Type A: TRASHWOODPAPER Type A extinguishers fight ordinary combustibles such as burning wood, cloth, paper, rubber upholstery, and plastics.

	Type B: LIQUIDS*GREASE Type B extinguishers fight flammable liquids, gases and greases such as oils, paints and gasolines.

	Type C: ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT Type C extinguishers fight energized electrical fires such as burning wires, fuse boxes, circuit breakers, machinery, and appliances.

	Type D: COMBUSTIBLE METALS Type D extinguishers are used on fires caused by combustible metals such as magnesium, sodium, potassium, and aluminum. Type D extinguishers much match the type of metal that is burning for safety and maximum effectiveness. A list of metals that match the unit's extinguishing agent should be on the labels.

	** There are also multipurpose fire extinguishers that can be used on Types A, B, and C classes of fire. You should select the most appropriate type of fire extinguishers for your needs.

ACT FAST!
Acting fast can make the difference between a small fire and one that consumes your whole building. Before fighting a fire, be certain that everyone has evacuated the building and that the fire department has been called. Fight the fire only if the fire is small and contained, a correct type extinguisher is within easy reach, and you are near a clear exit in case you need to escape.

USING THE EXTINGISHER

To use an extinguisher safely, stand six to eight feet from the fire with your back to an unblocked exit and use the PASS procedure.

· Pull - Pull the safety pin at the top of the extinguisher. (Some units have latches or levers instead)
· Aim - Aim the nozzle, horn, or hose at the base of the flames. Hold the extinguisher vertically to ensure the unit will have enough pressure.
· Squeeze - Squeeze or press the handle to release the extinguishing agent. Always read manufacturer's directions for your particular model.
· Sweep - Sweep from side to side at the base of the fire and at least six inches past the edges of the flames until completely extinguished.

To schedule a fire extinguisher program for your adult group:
Call (940)668-7777 EXT 731 or e-mail tsieger@gvps.org

READY FOR INSPECTION...

After each use, service the rechargeable units and replace disposable models immediately. Inspect all containers on a regular basis looking for damage, corrosion or tampering. Make sure extinguishers are easy to remove from hooks or wall brackets. Always maintain records of usage and service.

The Gainesville Fire Department serves as a drop-off location for citizens to have fire extinguishers serviced by Fire & Safety, an independent fire extinguisher sales and service company based in Wichita Falls, TX. Representatives visit Gainesville weekly and will service your fire extinguisher(s). Rates are determined by Fire & Safety. You may bring your fire extinguishers to 201 Santa Fe M-F between the hours of 8 am - 5 pm. Please clearly mark your name, address, and telephone number on each fire extinguisher delivered. For further questions about this service, please contact The Gainesville Fire Department at (940)668-7777 or email us at gfd@gvps.org.

For rate information please call Fire & Safety at (940)723-9005 or (800)322-9845.