The Lebanon Fire Department highly recommends fire extinguishers in any home or workplace to protect against the risk of fire. They can help to quickly and effectively put out small fires before they have a chance to spread and cause significant damage. While fire extinguishers can be a valuable tool in the event of a fire, it's important to remember that they should only be used in the early stages of a fire, before it has a chance to spread. If a fire is already well-established or if it poses a significant risk, it's best to evacuate the area immediately and call 911.
There are many types of fire extinguishers and they are all given a letter rating, each designed to tackle different types of fires. The Lebanon Fire Department recommends homeowners purchase an ABC extinguisher, not more than 20lb. These fire extinguishers can put out fires in ordinary combustible materials, such as wood, cloth, paper, rubber, and many plastics, fires in flammable liquids, combustible liquids, petroleum greases, tars, oils, oil-based paints, solvents, lacquers, alcohols, and flammable gases, as well as fires that involve energized electrical equipment.
It is important to ensure that the correct type of extinguisher is available for the potential risks in a given area. In addition, it's crucial that the extinguishers are maintained regularly and are easily accessible. Fire extinguishers should be inspected annually including shaking them to ensure the powder inside has not hardened and the pressure gauge is reading charged. They should be stored in a location that is clearly visible and easily accessible in the event of an emergency.
Fire safety is everyone's responsibility, and having the right tools and knowledge can make all the difference in protecting homes and businesses from the devastating effects of fire. By ensuring that fire extinguishers are readily available and properly maintained, citizens can take an active role in protecting their community from the dangers of fire.
The Lebanon Fire Department offers fire extinguisher training for businesses. Call 603-448-8810 or email fire@lebanonnh.gov to schedule your business training. Many local sprinkler and fire protection companies can recharge your fire extinguisher if the gauge is not reading charged. If you need to dispose of your fire extinguisher, they are accepted at the Lebanon Solid Waste & Recycling Facility. Visit the What Goes Where web page and search "fire extinguisher" for more information.
To use a fire extinguisher, remember the word PASS:
- Pull the pin
- Aim low at the base of the fire
- Squeeze the lever slowly
- Sweep the nozzle from side to side.
Please review the Fire Extinguisher Location and Placement flyer provided by the National Fire Protection Association and visit the U.S. Fire Administration website for more information.