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Fire extinguishers
worth the price
Most people realize how important it is to have a fire extinguisher nearby
in case an accidental fire flares up, says manager of public education at
the Ontario Fire Marshal's Office.
But fewer than one-third of all homeowners actually go out and purchase the
devices. If you'd like to join the safer minority, here's what you'll need
to know.
There are three basic ratings for extinguishers. Those carrying the "A"
letter rating are for fighting ordinary combustible fires involving wood,
paper or cloth. Flammable liquid fires (e.g. gas, oil or grease) require a
"B" rated extinguisher. The "C" designation is for units capable of putting
out electrical fires.
Most extinguishers will have multiple ratings, such as 1A/10BC.
"The numbers signify the product's relative level of effectiveness in
fighting each different type of fire. But for most consumers, all they
really need to know is it's best to get a multi-hazard, ABC-rated
extinguisher for the home. That way, they're prepared to battle whatever
type of fire they may encounter."
The kitchen is the most common site of accidental fires in the home. These
fires are mostly due to overheated oil in an unattended pot reaching its
flash point.
"Once combustion occurs, you typically only have about 30 seconds to stop
the fire before it spreads beyond control," says Gilbert. A properly fitting
pot lid will quickly smother the fire — but care must be taken not to get
burned, or catch clothing on fire, when putting the lid on.
The fire marshal's office recommends that kitchen extinguishers be mounted
away from the stove, so that they are accessible if fire erupts.
To use an extinguisher, follow the PASS principle: Pull pin; Aim low at base
of fire; Squeeze handle; and Sweep side to side.
Always ensure you have a clear escape route before fighting a fire, warn all
persons to evacuate the home, and make sure you or someone else calls the
fire department immediately.
Small kitchen fire extinguishers (about $15) only provide about five seconds
of spray, so it's important to hold them properly (fully upright, not tilted
or sideways) and aim at the source of the fire, not the flames.
Larger units are a better choice. The carry handle ensures the canister is
held upright and the hose better directs the flame retardant chemicals on to
the fire. The dry chemical agent used in ABC extinguishers is non-toxic, but
can be difficult to clean up after a fire as "it tends to form an
enamel-like coating when it hits heat."
Kidde fire safety (a division of Pyrene) now offers a "Foam out"
extinguisher ($59). This product utilizes the same foam used by firefighters
and is currently the only extinguisher of its kind available to the public.
The all-purpose foam works on any type of fire, smothering it like a blanket
while also preventing re-ignition. But, best of all, it's easy to use and
clean up afterward — just rinse away.
Inspect fire extinguishers monthly for adequate pressure (check gauge or
depress pin indicator) and replace or recharge immediately if low.
Never test an extinguisher by spraying it. This could result in a persistent
slow leak afterward.
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