How to Effectively Manage Fire and Use an SJP Fire Extinguisher

 

ENSURE YOUR SAFETY AND CALL or INSTRUCT SOMEONE TO CALL 112

ST JOHN PARK, BLOCK A, SVETI IVAN, BANSKO

 

There are generally 3 classes of fire extinguishers plus a fire hose reel used in our condominium

 

 Class A Fire

Involves solid materials such as wood, paper, clothing, plastic, and rubber

Easiest to extinguish using a water or foam extinguisher

 

Class B Fire

Involves flammable liquids (i.e. gasoline, tars, solvents, alcohols, oils) and gases (i.e. propane, butane)

Don’t use water to put Class B fires out — water actually spreads the material and makes the fire worse

Use foam, powder, or carbon dioxide extinguishers to limit the fire’s oxygen supply

 

Class C Fire

Involves electricity (i.e. appliances, motors, transformers, computers)

If it is safe to do so, disconnect the equipment from the power source.

Once disconnected, the fire is a different class of fire, usually Class A

Do not use water or foam extinguishers, as they conduct electricity and can pose a greater danger

 

 

Here are four key steps and considerations for using a fire extinguisher effectively in our condominium environment:

 

1. Assess the Situation

In a fire emergency, it is vital to ensure your own safety as well as others before attempting to put out a fire.

Do not attempt to extinguish a fire if it is larger than you. Instead, promptly contact the Fire and Rescue Department and proceed to the nearest fire exit quickly.

On the other hand, for fires that are smaller and not taller than you, select an appropriate fire extinguisher based on the type of fire you are dealing with.

 

2. Strategically Position Yourself

Ensure you are near a fire exit to guarantee an unobstructed and swift evacuation if necessary.

Stand at a safe distance where you can effectively use the fire extinguisher without the risk of sustaining burns.

 

3. Apply the ‘PASS’ Technique

Once in the correct position, utilise the PASS method to operate the fire extinguisher properly.

  • Pull: Pull the safety pin located at the top of the fire extinguisher.

  • Aim: Aim the nozzle at the fire’s base rather than its top.

  • Squeeze: Squeeze the lever gently to release the extinguishing agent.

  • Sweep: Sweep the fire extinguisher from side to side to sufficiently cover the fire and prevent it from spreading.

 

4. Always Face the Fire

Stay alert, and do not turn your back on the fire even if you think it appears to be extinguished.

This precaution is necessary as concealed hot spots might reignite and flare up again.

 

Class A Fire

Involves solid materials such as wood, paper, clothing, plastic, and rubber

Easiest to extinguish using a water or foam extinguisher

Class B Fire

Involves flammable liquids (i.e. gasoline, tars, solvents, alcohols, oils) and gases (i.e. propane, butane)

Don’t use water to put Class B fires out — water actually spreads the material and makes the fire worse

Use foam, powder, or carbon dioxide extinguishers to limit the fire’s oxygen supply

Class C Fire

Involves electricity (i.e. appliances, motors, transformers, computers)

If it is safe to do so, disconnect the equipment from the power source. Once disconnected, the fire is a different class of fire, usually Class A

Do not use water or foam extinguishers, as they conduct electricity and can pose a greater danger