Fire Extinguisher Guide

NOTE – The intent of this guide is that University employees are NOT REQUIRED to fight fires they discover with portable fire extinguishers; but to provide employees with the information needed to use portable fire extinguishers if a small fire situation arises.

Types of Fire

Class “A” – Involves ordinary combustible materials like: wood, paper, & cloth
Class “B” – Involves flammable & combustible liquids and gases
Class “C” – Involves a fire in electrical equipment
Class “D” – Involves flammable & combustible metals
Class “K” – Involves a fire in a commercial cooking appliance

Type of Fire Extinguisher to Use	Type of fire
	Class A: Wood/paper	Class B: Combustible liquids/gas	Class C: electrical equipment	Class D: Combustible metal	Class K: Commercial cooking appliance
ABC Dry Chemical	x	x	x
BC Dry Chemical		x	x
CO2 (Carbon Dioxide)		x	x
Pressurized Water	x
Pressurized Water Mist	x		x
Wet Chemical					x
Dry Powder				x
CleanGuard (Halon Replacement)		x	x

 

Operation of a Portable Fire Extinguisher

NOTE – A fire extinguisher is designed to extinguish small fires. Any time an employee utilizes a fire extinguisher; they must always have an exit/escape from the situation at their back. Never place a fire situation between you and your exit. If a fire extinguisher is utilized in or around a University building, the operator must report the incident as a fire to 9 1 1 as soon as possible.

Remember P.A.S.S.

• Pull and TWIST the pin from the extinguishers handle
• Aim the hose or nozzle towards the fire
• Squeeze the handles of the extinguisher together
• Sweep the extinguishing agent at the base of the fire
  

Training is available

“Hands-on” fire extinguisher training is available and can be arranged by contacting UI Facility Management at 335-5125.