The Hazards of Using Fire Extinguishers

Lack of Training

• Even if a fire extinguisher is available, not being trained in how to properly use it can cause a possible hazard when a fire actually occurs. For example, aiming the extinguisher at the flames won't quench the fire. Aim it at the base of the fire, from a safe distance, and sweep the extinguisher from side to side. Also, some types of extinguishers use a lever that you squeeze, while others use a button. Not being knowledgeable beforehand allows the fire to grow as you try to figure out how to use the extinguisher in the heat of the moment.

Wrong Type for Wrong Fire

• Not all fire extinguishers are the same. There are also five different classes of fires: A, B, C, D and K. The problem involved with using the wrong type of extinguisher on certain fires is that the extinguisher will be ineffective, allowing the fire to grow and spread instead of putting it out. For example, a water extinguisher is effective on a fire involving paper, but incompatible against electrical fires or fires involving combustible metals.

False Sense of Security

• Unless you are a professional firefighter, you aren't under any obligation to fight a fire. The fact that an extinguisher is available for use might fool you into thinking you should fight a fire that you cannot control, and this could put you in danger. Only use portable fire extinguishers on small fires. If the exit is not clear, or if you cannot use the extinguisher while avoiding the fire's smoke and keeping your back to the exit, you should evacuate immediately instead of using the extinguisher. Also, fire extinguisher availability sometimes encourages untrained persons to use the extinguisher when they should call 911 and flee the fire instead.

Lack of Maintenance

• The fire might be blazing and you might be trained in how to use a fire extinguisher, but the extinguisher itself might not be in good working condition as a result of improper maintenance and care. Carbon dioxide extinguishers, for example, can be refilled. But you might find the extinguisher empty if someone used it on a previous fire and didn't refill it afterward. Other problems might arise if the extinguisher has not been inspected every 30 days, or has not undergone its annual maintenance. These include leaks, dents and broken pins -- in which case the extinguisher should be replaced.