Using a water fire extinguisher involves following a few key steps to effectively tackle Class A fires (ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and textiles). The basic process is often summarized with the PASS acronym (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep), but for a water extinguisher, the specific actions are crucial.
Here's a breakdown of how to use a water fire extinguisher, based on standard operating procedures:
Step-by-Step Guide: Operating Your Water Extinguisher
Follow these steps precisely to deploy a water fire extinguisher:
- Break the Tamper Seal: Before you can use the extinguisher, you must break the plastic or wire tamper seal and pull out the safety pin. This unlocks the operating lever.
- Direct the Nozzle Towards the Base of the Fire: Aim the nozzle or hose low, directly at the source of the flames or the burning material, not at the flames themselves.
- Squeeze the Lever to Release the Water: Press the operating lever down firmly to discharge the water stream. Maintain a steady aim at the base of the fire.
- Cover the Area: Once discharging, move the stream across the burning material.
- If the fire is spreading horizontally, aim across the flames using a side-to-side sweeping movement.
- If the fire is spreading vertically (e.g., up a curtain or wall), start by aiming the jet at the base of the fire and slowly move the stream upwards, following the flames.
Continue discharging until the fire appears to be out. Watch the area carefully for re-ignition.
Key Principles for Effective Use
- Target Class A Fires: Water extinguishers are designed only for Class A fires (combustibles like wood, paper, cloth, trash). Using them on electrical fires or flammable liquids/gases can be extremely dangerous and make the fire worse.
- Maintain Distance: Approach the fire from a safe distance, typically 2-3 meters (6-10 feet), and move closer as the fire is brought under control.
- Ensure Suppression: Continue to apply water even after the visible flames are gone to cool the material and prevent reignition.
- Know When to Evacuate: If the fire is spreading rapidly, involves hazardous materials, or you cannot safely extinguish it, evacuate immediately and call the fire services.
Understanding these steps and knowing the limitations of a water extinguisher are vital for fire safety.
