Portable fire extinguishers are only designed to be used to tackle fire in its very early stages, and you should always ensure that the fire service has been called. A fire should not be tackled if it has started to spread to other items in the room or if the room is filling with smoke. If you cannot put out a fire or the fire extinguisher becomes empty, move away from the fire closing any door behind you. Which type of fire extinguisher should you use in the event of an emergency? Please refer to the chart below, and remember these handy hints. You should know the PASSword for using portable fire extinguishers.
Always test the extinguisher before approaching a fire. Don't put yourself in danger and always keep yourself between the fire and the exit. Don't place extinguishers over cookers, heaters or places of extreme heat. They should be fixed to a wall at a convenient height, on escape routes or outside living areas and close to specific risks as well as out of reach of children. Do read the instructions. Do recharge the extinguisher if fully or partly discharged. Do service properly once a year or in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations. All new extinguishers should comply with BS EN3: 1996 Extinguishers Manufactured before this date should comply with BS 5423: 1987 Fire Blankets should comply with BS 6575
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