There are several ways you can prevent a fire in your home and reduce the risk of fire damage. Smoke detectors, an evacuation plan, and a fire extinguisher on hand are all ways to minimize fire damage.
Small fires can be put out with a fire extinguisher. The problem with fire extinguishers though is that many homeowners do not know how to operate the fire extinguisher. Some homeowners do not even know where they keep their fire extinguishers. A fire extinguisher is advantageous in a fire emergency, so knowing its location and how to use it properly is necessary.
A good place to store your fire extinguisher is in the kitchen, garage, laundry room, or pantry. It needs to be near to where a fire could break out, but also kept in a cool dry place. Make sure everyone in your home knows where to find it in case of an emergency. A good rule of thumb is to keep it in a consistent place so in the event of a fire, it may be located quickly.
Inspecting your Fire Extinguisher
It is imperative to inspect your fire extinguisher. Check the inspection tag to examine the date it was last inspected to gauge if you need a new one. Pull the pin and look over the tamper seal to make sure it is working correctly. If the pin is missing or the tamper seal is broken, it is necessary to purchase a new fire extinguisher. You should also purchase a new extinguisher if you see dents, corrosion, or leaks. Lastly, check to make sure the pressure gauge needle is at peak operating range and lift the fire extinguisher to make sure it is full.
Using Your Fire Extinguisher
When using your extinguisher, most firefighters recommend using the P.A.S.S. method.
- Pull the pin.
- Aim at the base of the fire.
- Squeeze the trigger.
If you practice this technique step by step, you will have no trouble putting out a small fire.
Cleaning Up After You Use the Fire Extinguisher
If you must use your fire extinguisher, make sure you clean away any of the powder residue. While the residue is not toxic, it can cause an allergic reaction to your skin. Make sure to return the fire extinguisher back to its original location.
If you have a fire disaster in your home and it has been severely damaged, call ServiceMaster by Cornerstone. ServiceMaster by Cornerstone specializes in managing house fire repairs and restoration. They use commercial-grade equipment and cleaning solutions to restore your home to its original condition. They will aid in smoke damage, removing soot, and any additional jobs needed for complete fire clean-up. At ServiceMaster by Cornerstone, no job is too big or too small. They are here for you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days (about 12 months) a year. When emergency strikes, call ServiceMaster by Cornerstone at (901) 459-3675.
