Fire Extinguishers are a very important part of home safety.

They allow you to put out small fires and also maybe used to escape from big fires.

Some important things to consider before using an extinguisher are.

: Do I know how to use a fire extinguisher
: Can I get out safely if the fire does not go out
: What type of fire am I dealing with
: How big is the fire

Lets answer the first question

To use a fire extinguisher you must first check to see if it is fully charged.  If it is not do not use it.

A fully charged extinguisher should have a gauge that looks like this.  Notice that the yellow arrow is in the green space and not the red space.  Again if this is not the case do not use the extinguisher.  Next you need to use the acronym PASS.  This stands for

Pull the pin
Aim the hose at the base of the fire
Squeeze the handles together
Sweep the hose back and fourth covering the base of the fire.

When performing this always remember to have your back to an exit and stand back 6 to 8 feet so the force of the blast doesn't spread the fire.

The second question was Can I get out safely.  If you have your back to an exit this allows you to turn and run if you have to.  Remember if you use an extinguisher there will be a large volume of smoke and possibly powder depending on the type of extinguisher used.

The third question was What type of fire am I dealing with.  This is very important because not all extinguishers work on all fires. 

There are three types of common house hold fires.  Class A, ordinary combustibles; Class B, flammable liquids; and Class C, electrical fires.  The best bet is to use an ABC rated fire extinguisher.

The last question is merely a question of comfort.  If you are comfortable using an extinguisher on the size of fire you have than use it, but if you have any doubts at all don't use it let the professionals handle the problem.

Even if you put a fire out please make sure you still call 911.  We don't charge anything and its is better to be safe than sorry.