Fire Classifications
Class A: Identified with a green triangle, this class of fire is related to combustible wood, paper, trash, etc.
Class B: Identified with a red square, this class of fire is related to combustible liquids and fuels, such as gas, diesel, kerosene, etc.
Class C: Identified with a blue circle, this class of fire is used to identify any fire with an electrical hazard.
Class D: Identified with a yellow star, this class of fire is identified with combustible metals, such as magnesium.
Class K: Identified with a black hexagon, this class of fire relates to flammable kitchen fuels, such as cooking oil and grease.
Most Common Fire Extinguisher Types and Uses:
ABC Dry Chemical:
Can be used for most types of fires (class A, B, C) and is very simple to operate. It is the most readily available extinguisher type in households and businesses. The extinguisher is typically shaped like a cylinder, red in color, and has a black tube coming out of the handle. It is essential to ensure the extinguisher is filled to the proper pressure before it is used.
When using this extinguisher, the most simple and effective method is the (PA.S.S.) method.
- P – Pull the pin
- A – Aim at the base of the fire
- S – Squeeze the trigger
- S – Sweep the nozzle left and right while aiming at the base of the fire
Compressed Water Extinguisher:
Can only be used for class A fires and is usually only found in areas where the only fuel source is paper or wood. This extinguisher is typically cylindrical in shape, silver in color, and has a black tube coming from the handle. The operation for this extinguisher is the same as an ABC dry chemical extinguisher.
Carbon Dioxide Extinguisher:
This extinguisher is typically only used for class b and c fires. It is also cylindrical in shape, colored red, has a black tube coming out of the handle, and on the end of the black tube is a cone nozzle. This type of extinguisher is commonly found in areas where electrical fires or where important electrical devices are normally found. When using this extinguisher, it is essential that the nozzle stays pointed at the base of the fire, and the extinguisher is consistently used until it is empty. This helps to ensure that the fire has been completely deprived of oxygen and will not reignite.
Kitchen Fire and Hazards
The most common types of fires in a kitchen are:
Grease fires:
Grease fire commonly occur on the stove, and in the cooking pot or pan. If this happens, it is essential that the pot or pan is not moved. Moving it increases the risk of the oil spilling and fire spreading. The
most effective method of extinguishing the fire is by depriving the oxygen from it. Do not apply water to the fire, instead, you should use a lid to cover the pot or pan and turn off the stove. If that does not extinguish the fire, you should then use a fire extinguisher, and evacuate all residents.
Oven Fires:
If a fire occurs in an oven, ensure that the oven door remains closed. This will deprive the fire of oxygen and slow its growth.
Meeting Places and Accountability
Ensure that all residents and employees know the primary and secondary meeting spots, and the location of all exits in the structure. Once at the meeting spot, ensure that there is an accountability of all residents. In the case that there is a missing resident, notify the first arriving emergency responder, and do not re-enter the structure.
Driving To and From Work
Ensure that you are safely driving to and from work. don’t let your emotions distract you from driving. Not wearing a seatbelt and distracted driving are among the leading causes of vehicle related fatalities.
Basic Tips and Reminders
- If your clothes are on fire, always remember to stop, drop, and roll.
- All components of the fire alarm system are only to be altered or operated by trained professionals and first responders.
- In the event of a fire, notify the dispatch center and first responders of any special hazards, missing people, injuries, etc.
- In any smoke-filled environments, remain as close to the floor as possible, this will help increase the probability of survivability.
- Any other questions can be answered by the local fire department or the instructor that is currently present.