Fire extinguishers

What you need to know - tips and how tos

In an emergency, there is no time to read directions. Your fire extinguisher is only reliable if:

• You have installed your fire extinguisher where it is easy to reach
• You have maintained your fire extinguisher properly and it is fully charged
• You know how to use your fire extinguisher safely

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  How to choose a fire extinguisher

  For most home use, purchase a portable A-B-C fire extinguisher that can be used for all three classes of fires. Class B and Class C fire extinguishers can be used on class A fires. Many department stores sell portable fire extinguishers.

  A fire extinguisher:

  • Must have the seal of an independent testing laboratory.
  • In a business, multi-residential building, or public building must be tested and tagged once a year by an Applied Science Technologists and Technicians of BC (ASTTBC) technician.
  • Need routine care. Ask the salesperson how your extinguisher should be cared for, inspected and serviced.
  • That is rechargeable must be serviced after every use.
  • That is disposable can be used once, and then must be replaced.

  Understanding the fire extinguisher label

  If a label is missing a letter or symbol for a particular fire type, it means the fire extinguisher has not been tested for use on that type of fire. If the label shows a red slash through a letter or symbol, the fire extinguisher cannot be used at all on that type of fire.

  Portable fire extinguishers are labeled with letters – A, B and C – or symbols. This label shows the extinguisher has been tested against one or more of the three types of house fires:

  • Class A: Ordinary combustibles such as wood, cloth, paper, rubber, and many plastics
  • Class B: Flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil, grease, tar, oil-based paint and lacquer, and flammable gas
  • Class C: Electrical equipment such as wiring, fuse boxes, circuit breakers, machinery, and appliances

  The label on a portable fire extinguisher shows the type and size of fire the device can extinguish.

  Information icon Tip: Vancouver Fire and Rescue Services recommends an ABC multi-purpose dry chemical extinguisher with a minimum 2A 10BC rating.

   Warning: Portable fire extinguishers - of any size - are not designed to fight large or spreading fires. 

  Get a fire extinguisher that is an appropriate size for you

  A portable fire extinguisher can be discharged completely in as little as eight seconds. Make sure you choose an appropriate size. The higher the size rating, the heavier the fire extinguisher. Make sure you can lift, hold and operate the fire extinguisher.

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  Installing a fire extinguisher 

  Install portable fire extinguishers where they can be seen, but above a child's reach. Install at least one in the kitchen, one in the basement, and at least one by every exit of the house.

   Fire extinguishers are pressurized cannisters. Keep them away from any stoves or heating appliances.

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  How to use a fire extinguisher

  When you should not fight a fire

   Warning: Before you fight a fire, consider the risk. If the following conditions are not met, leave immediately, and close all doors and windows behind you:

  • Everyone has left or is leaving the building\
  • Someone has called 9-1-1 to report the fire
  • The fire is confined to a small area and is not spreading beyond the area immediately around it
  • You can escape through an unblocked route where the fire will not spread
  • You have read and understand the directions and know how to use the extinguisher

  Four step procedure to fighting a fire with a fire extinguisher

  Extinguish a fire by standing a distance of about 2.5 metres (6 to 8 feet) away from the fire. If the fire does not begin to go out immediately, leave the area at once.

  Remember the acronym PASS, that describes the four-step procedure:

  1. PULL - Pull the pin out: This unlocks the operating lever, and allows you to discharge the extinguisher. Some extinguishers have other devices that prevent you from accidentally discharging the extinguisher, so make sure you have read the directions.
  2. AIM  - Aim low: Point the extinguisher nozzle, or hose, at the base of the fire.
  3. SQUEEZE - Squeeze the lever: This discharges the extinguisher. Letting go of the lever will stop the discharge. Some extinguishers have a button that you press. Make sure you know the parts of your fire extinguisher.
  4. SWEEP - Sweep from side to side: Move 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 starts again, repeat the process.
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  How to maintain a fire extinguisher

  Fire extinguishers require regular maintenance. Follow the manufacturer's directions for taking care of your extinguisher. Be sure to check the pressure gauge once a month.

  Rechargeable fire extinguishers

  Recharge your fire extinguisher immediately if:

  • The pressure gauge shows "Recharge" or "Overcharged".
  • There is powder on or near the extinguisher. This means the extinguisher has been partially discharged.
  • There are any visible defects or damage to the extinguisher.

  To repair or recharge a fire extinguisher, contact a certified fire protection service technician.

  Disposable fire extinguishers

  Replace disposable fire extinguishers immediately after use. 

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  Recycling a fire extinguisher

  If you have a portable fire extinguisher that is empty and needs to be recycled, please take it to a local fire extinguisher supply/servicing company. They will recycle the extinguisher's parts for a small fee.

  Alert icon   Please do not take empty extinguishers to your local firehall. They are not able to recycle extinguishers.