b. Fire Extinguishers, Descriptions, Class Uses, and Directions. With the exception of water,
the three most common types of fire extinguishers are-
(1) CO2 extinguishers (Figure 1-22, page 1-31) may be used on Class B and C fires. To
operate a C02 extinguisher, pull the seal locking pin and open the operating valve. Direct the C02
toward the base of the fire with a sweeping motion.
(2) Dry chemical extinguishers may be used on Class B and C fires. These units contain a
these units on trash fires. To operate the extinguisher, remove the locking pin, open the cartridge
discharge valve, and squeeze the nozzle handle.
(3) Foam extinguishers (Figure 1-23, page 1-31) may be used on Class A and B fires. For a
fire involving liquids, invert the extinguisher and direct the hose so that the foam is played over the
surface of the fire. In a solid-material fire, direct the stream of foam to fall lightly on or flow over the
burning surface of the material.
c. Fire-Prevention Safety Rules. Observe the following safety rules in connection with fire
prevention:
Prevent the obstruction of approaches (driveways, doors, and aisles) to fire-fighting
apparatus or equipment.
Avoid using flammable liquids to start fires in a salamander or a rubbish pile.
Use a low-hazard solvent, preferably nonflammable, instead of gasoline as a cleaning
agent.
Avoid the use of a gasoline furnace or a blowtorch where flammable vapors are present.
Train all personnel in the use and the proper selection of a fire extinguisher that is
appropriate to the different classes of fires.
Notify the fire department immediately whenever a fire extinguisher has been used so
that it can be recharged or replaced.
1-29
EN0562
Previous Page
