Fire Extinguisher Safety Tips and Information

What is a Fire Extinguisher?

A fire extinguisher is a hand-held, cylindrical pressure vessel, typically made of steel or aluminum, that contains an agent designed to extinguish fires. There are two primary types:

• Stored Pressure: The most common type, often filled with a dry chemical agent.
• Cartridge-Operated: Less common, with separate gas cartridges for propellant.

The most widely used extinguishers contain dry chemicals like mono ammonium sulfate, sodium bicarbonate, or potassium bicarbonate, all considered non-toxic.

Types of Fire Extinguishers

There are five main types of extinguishers, each designed to combat different types of fires:

• Class A: For ordinary combustibles (wood, paper, cloth).
• Class B: For flammable liquids (gasoline, oil, grease).
• Class C: For electrical fires.
• Class D: For combustible metals (magnesium, titanium).
• Class K: For kitchen fires involving oils and fats.

Multipurpose fire extinguishers, labeled "A-B-C" or "B-C," can handle various fire types, making them ideal for home use. These can typically be purchased at most home improvement stores.

When to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguishers are most effective for small, contained fires. Before using one, ask yourself the following:

• Have others been alerted to the fire?
• Has someone called the fire department?
• Am I physically capable of using the extinguisher?
• Is the fire contained and manageable?
• Am I safe from harmful smoke?
• Do I have a clear exit route?

If all these conditions are met, it's safe to use a fire extinguisher. If unsure or if the situation escalates, evacuate and call 911.

Operating a Fire Extinguisher: The PASS Method

• Pull the pin.
• Aim low, pointing the nozzle at the fire’s base.
• Squeeze the lever evenly.
• Sweep from side to side.

Fire Extinguisher Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures your extinguisher is ready when needed. Check extinguishers when changing smoke detector batteries:

• Ensure easy access—nothing should obstruct it.
• Confirm the pressure is within the recommended range.
• Inspect for damage to the canister, hoses, or nozzles.
• Clean the extinguisher’s exterior to remove dust or grease.
• Follow any manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance, such as shaking the extinguisher monthly or replacing it every 10 years.

Recycling Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers under pressure can pose hazards, particularly older models made before the 1960s, which may contain harmful substances like carbon tetrachloride, a known carcinogen. If you have such an extinguisher, contact local authorities for safe disposal instructions.

Disposal of Empty Fire Extinguishers

• Ensure it's empty: Squeeze the lever to release any remaining contents.
• Remove the head: This signals recyclers that the extinguisher is empty.
• Recycle the steel body: The extinguisher casing can be sent to a metal recycler.

For non-empty extinguishers, discharge the contents safely before recycling:

• Discharge outdoors, away from children or pets.
• Wear goggles and a mask.
• Once discharged, remove the head and take it to a recycler.

Recycling Locations

Fire extinguishers can be recycled at the following locations (please ensure they are completely discharged):

• Marco, Inc.: 320 Commerce Drive, Exton, PA (610-363-2233)
• Keystone Fire Protection: 433 Industrial Drive, North Wales, PA (215-641-0100)

For more information or to suggest updates, contact the Lower Providence Fire Department’s Assistant Chief at 610-539-5408.