Loss Prevention Service - Fire Extinguishers Using a fire extinguisher to put out a small fire, or contain it until fire fighters arrive, can save lives and property. But to be effective you must know how to safely use a fire extinguisher, as well as be aware that you may be putting yourself at risk. Never fight a fire unless you are certain that you know how to use the fire extinguisher properly, and that you have a safe route out of the building in case you can not extinguish the fire.

Introduction Smoke detectors Recommended location of alarms Fire safety planning Fire extinguishers Some important fire safety tips

Some Important Points To Remember Are: Fire extinguishers are rated as to what type of fire they will put out. Most new all purpose fire extinguishers are rated ABC. An ABC type fire extinguisher will safely, and effectively extinguish all types of fires. Class "A" fires involve ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper and plastic. Class "B" fires involve flammable liquids such as gasoline, grease, oil, and paint. Class "C" fires involve live electrical wiring and electric devices. An "ABC" type fire extinguisher is a good all-purpose fire extinguisher that can be used to fight all three types of fires safely. When using a fire extinguisher, remember the PASSword. PASS in an acronym for: Pull the pin Aim low Squeeze the handle Sweep from side to side Every kitchen should have at least one fire extinguisher. In the kitchen the likelihood of a fire is increased due to the number of electric appliances located there, as well as due to the obvious dangers associated with cooking. Keeping your extinguishers easily accessible, preferably bracketed to the wall. Don't keep them in a place that could be difficult to get to if a fire breaks out, such as on the back wall above a stove. Keep a fire extinguisher in any area of your home where the potential for a fire is high. For example, near a wood stove or fireplace, in a laundry room, in the garage or in a workshop. Remember, before you begin to fight a small fire make sure everyone has left the home or the building, and that the fire departments has been called. A small fire could become a major blaze in minutes. Don't use any extinguisher unless you know exactly what to do and still have a clear exit. If your escape route could be blocked, forget about trying to fight the fire and get out immediately. Be sure to check the gauge on your fire extinguisher on a regular basis to ensure that it is fully charged (if your extinguisher has a gauge). Brant Mutual Insurance Company has fire extinguishers for sale to our policyholders at a reduced cost. Having access to fire extinguishers at a reduced cost is one way that we are fighting to protect your life and your home. Brant Mutual Insurance company also offers free recharging of any fire extinguisher that our policy holders have. Our loss prevention officer will pick-up your fire extinguisher and provide you with a loaner while yours is out being services and recharged. Call our office for more information on fire extinguishers, recharging, and fire extinguisher use. We can also provide training for the safe and effective use of a fire extinguisher if you require it.