Fire Extinguisher FAQ

---

Using a fire extinguisher involves following a simple acronym called "PASS":

1. Pull: Pull the pin or safety clip from the extinguisher. This action will allow you to discharge the extinguishing agent.
2. Aim: Aim the nozzle or hose at the base of the fire. Avoid aiming at the flames themselves; focus on the source of the fire.
3. Squeeze: Squeeze the handle or lever to discharge the extinguishing agent. Do this in a controlled manner, applying the agent evenly.
4. Sweep: Sweep the nozzle or hose from side to side while pointed at the base of the fire. Maintain a safe distance and continue until the fire is fully extinguished.

Test the extinguisher first to ensure it works before you approach a fire. Never put a fire between yourself and the exit. Always prioritize your safety and evacuate immediately if the room fills with smoke, the fire grows beyond your ability to control it or if there's a risk to your safety. Only buy an extinguisher that has been approved by a recognized testing laboratory such as U.L.C. or C.S.A 

Please follow this video link for detailed information on the safe use of a fire extinguisher provided by the City of Calgary Fire Department.

Owners and tenants of commercial building are required by the Alberta Fire Safety Code to have their fire extinguishers and exit signs inspected annually by a licensed technician. Yearly inspections are mandatory regardless of whether the fire extinguisher has been utilized. These inspections are essential for maintaining a safe environment and ensuring that fire extinguishers are ready for use in case of an emergency.

 City of Calgary Fire Code Requirements for the Maintenance of Buildings and Life Safety Systems 

Understanding these ratings is essential to ensure you have the right type and size of extinguisher for the potential fire risks present in your environment. Matching the extinguisher rating with the specific fire hazards in your business is crucial for effective fire safety. 

• Class A Rating: Indicates the extinguisher's effectiveness against Class A fires, involving ordinary combustible materials like wood, paper, cloth, and plastics. The number preceding the "A" represents the extinguishing agent's relative capacity to extinguish Class A fires. Higher numbers indicate a greater capacity to extinguish these types of fires. 

• Class B Rating: Shows the extinguisher's capability to combat Class B fires, which involve flammable liquids like gasoline, oil, grease, solvents, and oil-based paints. The number before the "B" signifies the approximate coverage area in square feet for flammable liquid fires. Higher numbers denote larger coverage areas. 

• Class C Rating: Denotes the extinguisher's suitability for Class C fires, which involve electrical equipment and energized electrical sources. Class C extinguishers do not have a numerical rating as they are primarily designed to break the conductivity of the electrical current without providing a coverage area. 

• Class D and K Ratings: These are specific to Class D (combustible metals) and Class K (cooking oils, fats, and greases) fires, respectively. They are designed for particular hazards and use specific extinguishing agents tailored for those fire types.  

Fire extinguishers are labeled with numbers like 3-A:40-B:C. These numbers denote the size ratings for each extinguishing agent. Here's a breakdown of how they function:

• Class A size rating is a representation of water equivalency. Each number signifies 1 ¼ gallons of water. For instance, a 1A rating means the extinguisher is as effective as 1 ¼ gallons of water, while 3A is equivalent to 3.75 gallons of water.

• Class B size rating indicates the coverage area. A 40B rating means that, when using a sweeping motion, the extinguisher can cover 40 square feet.

• Class C fires, there's no specific size rating. Class C involves electrical fires, essentially Class A or B fires with energized components, necessitating a non-conductive extinguishing agent. To combat Class C fires effectively, choose extinguishers based on their Class A and B size ratings.

• Class D fires have no size rating. Instead, the extinguisher's effectiveness is detailed on the nameplate, specifying the particular combustible metal for which it's recommended.

The placement of fire extinguishers is critical to ensure they are easily accessible and effective in the event of a fire. Here are some guidelines for fire extinguisher placement:

1. Visibility and Accessibility: Fire extinguishers should be highly visible and easily accessible. They should be placed along evacuation routes, near exits, and in areas prone to fire risks, such as kitchens, workshops, and near electrical equipment
2. Mounting Height: Fire extinguishers are required to be mounted, the recommended installation height for fire extinguishers is around 3.5 to 5 feet above the floor. Mount them in a visible and easily reachable location, ensuring they are not obstructed by furniture, equipment, or other objects.  Minimum installation height is 4 inches from the ground but should not exceed 5 feet, except for extinguishers weighing over 40 lbs. Those heavier extinguishers can be positioned up to 3 feet 6 inches above the ground. Wheeled fire extinguishers are an exception and don't require elevation since their wheels prevent direct contact with the floor 
3. Maximum Travel Distances:

• Class - A extinguishers should be situated within 75 feet of potential flame sources, as per regulations. 
• Class - B extinguishers should be situated within 30-50 feet of potential flame sources, as per regulations.  Distance varies based on the type of hazard and the rating of the extinguisher in use. 
• Class - C N/A
• Class - D extinguishers should be situated within 75 feet of potential flame sources, as per regulations. 
• Class - K extinguishers should be situated within 30 feet of potential flame sources, as per regulations  

         4. Specific Areas:

• Kitchen and Cooking Areas: Place fire extinguishers near cooking equipment, but at a safe distance from potential fire sources to avoid heat damage.   
• Workshops and Garages: In these areas, where flammable materials or tools are used, have fire extinguishers mounted visibly near the entrance or in strategic locations.
• Near Electrical Equipment: Install extinguishers near areas with electrical equipment but ensure they are suitable for Class C fires (electrical fires) and kept a safe distance away to avoid shock hazards.
•  Signage and Labeling: Clearly label fire extinguishers with their appropriate class and usage instructions. Install signage indicating their location to ensure easy identification during emergencies.
• Regular Inspections: Conduct routine checks to ensure extinguishers are in their designated locations, properly charged, not damaged, and have visible signage. Replace or recharge any that show signs of damage or use.
• Consideration of Fire Hazards: Evaluate the specific fire hazards in different areas of the building and place extinguishers accordingly. For example, consider using Class B extinguishers near flammable liquid storage areas.
• Adherence to Regulations: Follow local fire safety codes and regulations regarding the placement and quantity of fire extinguishers required based on the size and occupancy of the building.

Properly placed and well-maintained fire extinguishers can play a crucial role in containing small fires and preventing them from escalating, potentially saving lives and property.

Please follow this link for detailed information on fire extinguisher placement guidelines provided by the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association). 

The service schedule for fire extinguishers typically involves several steps:

Monthly Inspections: A quick visual inspection by an appointed individual to ensure the extinguisher is in its designated place, the pressure gauge or indicator shows it's in the operational range, and there's no visible damage or tampering. Record these inspections in a logbook.

Annual Maintenance: Conducted by a certified professional, this involves a more thorough inspection and service:  

• External Inspection: Ensure the extinguisher is free from damage, corrosion, or leaks. Check the hose/nozzle for cracks or blockages.
• Pressure Check: Verify the pressure gauge or indicator falls within the acceptable range specified by the manufacturer.

Recharging a fire extinguisher involves refilling it with the appropriate extinguishing agent and pressurizing it to the recommended level. Here are the detailed steps involved in the recharging process: 

• Assessment: Inspect the extinguisher for damage, leaks, or any signs of wear that might affect its functionality. Ensure the extinguisher is within its service dates.
• Discharge and Depressurize: If the extinguisher has been discharged or still has pressure, completely discharge it.
• Disassembly: Remove the valve assembly from the extinguisher cylinder, following the manufacturer's instructions. Inspect the valve components for any damage or wear.
• Agent Replacement: Refill the extinguisher with the appropriate extinguishing agent specified for its type and fill to the recommended level.
• Pressurization: Reinstall the valve assembly and pressurize the extinguisher to the recommended pressure using nitrogen.
• Pressure Check: Verify the pressure gauge or indicator to ensure it falls within the acceptable range specified by the manufacturer.
• Labeling: Apply a new inspection tag and seal to hold the pin in place.
• Documentation: Maintain detailed records of the recharging process, including the date, the person performing the recharge, the type and quantity of extinguishing agent used, pressure readings, and any observations made during the process.

6-year maintenance: On a fire extinguisher involves more in-depth servicing to ensure its functionality and safety. Here's what's typically required during this maintenance:

•  Internal Examination: Discharge the extinguisher to check its internal condition. This involves inspecting the cylinder for corrosion, dents, or damage that could compromise its integrity. Checking the valve assembly for proper functioning, ensuring it opens and closes correctly.
• Refilling/Recharging: If the extinguisher has been discharged or its pressure falls below the acceptable range, refill it with the appropriate extinguishing agent. Also, recharge it with the necessary pressure as per manufacturer specifications.
• Replace Components (If Needed): Replace any damaged or worn-out components, such as seals, O-rings, or hoses, to maintain the extinguisher's functionality.
• Documentation: Maintain thorough records of the maintenance, including the date, details of the inspection, any repairs or replacements made, and the next scheduled maintenance date.

Hydrostatic Testing: Depending on the type of extinguisher, they may require hydrostatic testing every 5 to 12 years. Hydrostatic testing for fire extinguishers involves pressurizing the cylinder with water to assess its structural integrity. Here are the detailed steps typically involved in this process:

• Discharge and Depressurize: Completely discharge the extinguisher and ensure it's depressurized to remove any remaining pressure within the cylinder.
• Remove Valve Assembly: Disconnect the valve assembly from the extinguisher cylinder, following manufacturer instructions. Ensure all residual extinguishing agent is removed.
• Prepare for Testing: Fill the extinguisher with water and attach the test fitting, ensuring it's watertight for the hydrostatic test. A high pressure pump is connected to the test fitting on the extinguisher using a hydraulic hose.
• Pressurization: Pressure is slowly increased until the specified test pressure is reached and stable. 
• Hold and Inspect: Pressure is maintained for 30 seconds. The cylinder is inspected for any signs of leaks, bulges, or deformities during this time.  
• Release Pressure and Drain: Once the testing duration is complete, release the pressure slowly and completely drain the testing medium from the cylinder.
• Dry and Reassemble: Thoroughly dry the interior of the cylinder to prevent corrosion. Reassemble the valve assembly, ensuring all components are properly reinstalled and secured according to manufacturer specifications.
• Documentation: Document all details of the hydrostatic test, including the test date, pressure readings, duration, and the condition of the cylinder. Maintain these records as part of the extinguisher's maintenance history.
• Recharge and Re-certify: Recharge the extinguisher with the appropriate extinguishing agent and pressurize it to the recommended level. Recertify the extinguisher, indicating it has passed the hydrostatic test and is safe for use. 

It's essential to adhere to these service schedules to ensure fire extinguishers remain in optimal working condition and are prepared for use during a fire emergency. Always follow local regulations and manufacturer guidelines regarding maintenance and service intervals.

Not all fire extinguishers are refillable. The refillability of an extinguisher largely depends on its design and the type of extinguishing agent it contains. Some extinguishers, like most rechargeable ones, are designed to be refilled after use or during routine maintenance. These are commonly found with types such as dry chemical, water, foam, and CO2 extinguishers. They can be discharged and then refilled, typically by a certified professional, following specific procedures outlined by the manufacturer.

However, certain disposable or non-rechargeable extinguishers, often known as "single-use" extinguishers, are not refillable. Once discharged, they are intended for disposal or replacement.  

These chemicals are carefully selected and formulated to combat specific fire types while ensuring the safety of users and minimizing damage to the environment.

These chemicals are carefully selected and formulated to combat specific fire types while ensuring the safety of users and minimizing damage to the environment.

Dry Chemical Extinguishers: They use powders to interrupt the fire triangle (heat, oxygen, fuel) reaction. Chemicals include:

• Monoammonium Phosphate: Effective for Class A, B, and C fires.
• Sodium Bicarbonate: Suitable for Class B and C fires.
• Potassium Bicarbonate: Effective against Class B and C fires.
• Potassium Chloride: Used for Class K fires (kitchen fires involving cooking oils and fats).
• Sodium Bicarbonate (Foam Compatible): Used in foam-compatible extinguishers.
• Sodium Chloride: Commonly used in extinguishers for magnesium fires.
• Sodium Carbonate: Effective for fires involving sodium.
• Graphite-based Agents: Utilized for lithium and other metal fires.

Foam Extinguishers: They use foam to smother the fire and prevent oxygen from fueling it. Chemicals include:

• Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF): Used for Class A and B fires.
• Alcohol-Resistant Foams: Effective against fires involving alcohol and polar solvents.
• Film-Forming Fluoroprotein: Suitable for hydrocarbon fires.

Water Extinguishers: These use water to cool the burning material. Types include:

• Pump Type Water: Effective for Class A fires involving ordinary combustibles.
• Air-Pressurized Water: Used for Class A fires.
• Water Mist: Utilizes a nozzle to disperse microscopic water mist particles, effectively cooling the fire.

Wet Chemical Extinguishers: They create a soapy foam blanket over burning oil, cooling it below its ignition temperature. Chemicals may include wetting agents, antifreeze, and loaded stream solutions.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Extinguishers: These extinguishers work by displacing oxygen and removing heat from the combustion zone. Chemicals used might include halocarbon replacements, CO2, novec 1230, potassium aerosol, and E-36 cryotec.

Watermist Extinguishers: These contain water without additional chemicals but disperse 'dry' water mist particles using specialized nozzles, featuring microscopic sizes ranging from 50 to 300µm.

Using the wrong type of fire extinguisher for a specific type of fire can result in various consequences, potentially leading to an ineffective firefighting attempt and increased danger. Here's what could happen when using the wrong extinguisher:

1. Fire Not Controlled: Using an incorrect extinguisher might fail to suppress the fire, allowing it to spread or reignite. For instance, using water on a grease fire (Class K) can cause the flames to escalate, spreading the fire rather than extinguishing it.
2. Chemical Reaction: Some extinguishing agents can react dangerously when used on the wrong type of fire. For example, using water on electrical fires (Class C) can cause electrical shock or create a hazardous situation.
3. Increased Danger: Using an inappropriate extinguisher can lead to the fire escalating or spreading, causing more damage and posing increased danger to individuals in the vicinity.
4. Toxic Fumes or Chemical Release: The incorrect extinguisher might release toxic fumes or chemicals when used on certain types of fires, posing health risks to those nearby.

To ensure effective firefighting and safety:

• Use the correct type of extinguisher suitable for the specific class of fire.
• Train personnel on the proper use of extinguishers and the types of fires they can handle.
• Adhere to fire safety guidelines and regulations to prevent hazardous situations and ensure the safety of individuals and property.

Fire extinguishers should undergo regular inspections to ensure they are in proper working condition and ready for use in case of a fire emergency. Regular inspections are essential to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations. They help maintain the extinguisher's functionality, ensuring it's fully operational and capable of combating fires effectively when needed.

Monthly Inspections: A quick visual check by designated personnel to ensure the extinguisher is in its designated location, the pressure gauge or indicator shows it's within the operational range, and there are no visible signs of damage or tampering. These inspections are logged in a record book.

Annual Maintenance Inspections: Carried out by certified professionals. This involves a more comprehensive inspection and service, including:

• External inspection for damage, corrosion, or leaks.
• Pressure check to ensure the extinguisher is within the acceptable range.
• Internal inspection (if required) to ensure the extinguishing agent is free-flowing.
• Recharging or refilling if necessary.

Hydrostatic Testing: Periodic testing (usually every few years) to assess the structural integrity of the extinguisher cylinder, especially for high-pressure cylinders.

Yes, fire extinguishers do have an expiration date or a designated lifespan. While they don't necessarily have a fixed expiration date like perishable goods, they do have a period of effectiveness and need regular maintenance and checks. 

 The lifespan of a fire extinguisher can be influenced by various factors, such as:

• Whether it is reusable or non-reusable
• Date of manufacture
• Type of extinguisher
• Maintenance practices

Manufacturers often suggest that fire extinguishers typically last between 10 to 12 years on average. However, this duration depends on several variables. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), fire extinguishers fall into two categories:

• Rechargeable Fire Extinguishers: These are reusable and require maintenance every 6 years.
• Disposable Fire Extinguishers: Non-reusable extinguishers with an average lifespan of 10-12 years, necessitating replacement every 12 years.

Over time, the powder inside a fire extinguisher can settle and compact due to gravity and environmental factors. This settling can cause the powder to clump or form solid masses at the bottom of the extinguisher. When the powder becomes compacted, it might affect the effectiveness of the extinguisher when needed in an emergency. Fluffing the powder inside an ABC fire extinguisher involves redistributing and loosening the compacted powder to ensure its effectiveness during use. Here's a general guide on how to fluff the powder in an ABC extinguisher:

1. Safety Precautions: Ensure you're in a well-ventilated area. Use appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and goggles, as some powder might escape during the process.
2. Inspect the Extinguisher: Check the pressure gauge to ensure the extinguisher is not pressurized or in use. Ensure the extinguisher is not damaged and is safe to handle.
3. Turn the Extinguisher Upside Down: Gently turn the extinguisher upside down to allow the powder to settle at the opposite end of the nozzle.
4. Tap and Shake: Tap the bottom of the extinguisher with your hand  to agitate and loosen the compacted powder. Then, gently shake the extinguisher from side to side to further dislodge the powder and break up any clumps.
5. Rotate the Extinguisher: Rotate the extinguisher in different directions (side to side, up and down) to help redistribute the powder evenly throughout the canister.
6. Repeat as Necessary: Continue tapping, shaking, and rotating the extinguisher until you feel the powder has become more loose and evenly distributed inside.

It's essential to follow manufacturer instructions and recommended maintenance procedures for your specific extinguisher model. If you're unsure or uncomfortable performing this procedure, it's best to have a certified professional service the extinguisher to ensure its proper functioning during a fire emergency.

The duration a fire extinguisher lasts when fighting a fire depends on the size of the extinguisher. As a general estimate, a typical 5-pound (2.27 kg) dry chemical extinguisher might discharge for about 10-25 seconds continuously. The average discharge time among the most common sizes is 8-30 seconds.

For home fire safety, it's recommended to have at least one multipurpose fire extinguisher that covers multiple fire classes. The most commonly recommended type for homes is an ABC fire extinguisher, which can handle Class A, B, and C fires:

• Class A: Ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, cloth.
• Class B: Flammable liquids like oil, grease, gasoline.
• Class C: Electrical fires involving appliances, wiring, or electrical outlets.

Here are some tips when choosing a fire extinguisher for home use:

• Multipurpose: Look for an ABC-rated extinguisher. These are versatile and cover the most common types of household fires.
• Size and Weight: Consider a size that's easy to handle and fits your home's layout. A 2-5 pound (0.9-2.27 kg) extinguisher is often suitable for residential use.
• Readiness: Ensure it's easy to access in case of an emergency. Mount it in a visible, easily reachable location.
• Maintenance: Check the pressure gauge regularly to ensure it's in the green zone. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines for maintenance and recharge if used or expired.

Remember, having a fire extinguisher is just one part of fire safety.  Only adults who know how to use portable fire extinguishers should operate them, also have an evacuation plan in place. If you're uncertain about which extinguisher to get or how to use it, consider seeking advice from a fire safety professional or your local fire department.

A fire blanket is an excellent addition to home fire protection measures. It's a safety device made from fire resistant materials designed to smother small fires or wrap around a person whose clothing is on fire. Here's how a fire blanket can enhance home fire safety:

• Versatile Use: It can be used to put out small fires involving cooking oils, clothing, curtains, or waste bins. It can also be used to wrap around a person to extinguish flames if their clothing catches fire.
• Easy to Use: Fire blankets are straightforward to use. In case of a fire, grab the blanket, hold it firmly by the tabs or handles, and carefully place it over the flames to smother them. When using it to protect a person, wrap them in the blanket to smother the fire.
• Safety Precaution: Especially useful in kitchens where cooking-related fires can occur. Having a fire blanket on hand provides an additional safety measure beyond a fire extinguisher.
• Non-Toxic: Fire blankets are usually made of non-toxic, flame-resistant materials, making them safe to use without the risk of releasing harmful chemicals.
• Reusable: In most cases, fire blankets can be reused if not damaged during their use.

When using a fire blanket, remember to follow these safety tips:

• Ensure everyone in the household knows where the fire blanket is stored and how to use it.
• If in doubt or if the fire is significant, evacuate the premises and call emergency services.

A fire blanket complements other fire safety equipment, like smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, and can be a valuable addition to your home's fire safety measures.

The type of fire extinguisher needed for a business depends on the nature of the business, the potential fire hazards present, and the specific fire classes that might occur. Here's a general guideline:

ABC Multipurpose Extinguishers: These are commonly recommended for most businesses as they cover Class A, B, and C fires:

• Class A: Ordinary combustibles (wood, paper, cloth).
• Class B: Flammable liquids (oil, grease, gasoline).
• Class C: Electrical fires (appliances, wiring, outlets).

Specific Hazards: Certain businesses might have specialized fire risks requiring specific extinguishers:

• Class K Extinguishers: For commercial kitchens dealing with cooking oils and fats.
• Class D Extinguishers: For industrial settings with combustible metal hazards like magnesium or lithium.

Size and Quantity: Consider the size and number of extinguishers based on the size and layout of your business premises. Place them in easily accessible locations, ensuring they're visible and unobstructed.

Consult Professionals: Consider consulting with a fire safety professional or the local fire department to assess your business's specific needs and to ensure compliance with local fire codes and regulations.

Regular Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain the extinguishers as per manufacturer recommendations and local regulations. Train employees on their use and location.

Ultimately, ensuring adequate fire safety in a business involves a combination of proper extinguisher selection, appropriate placement, employee training, and adherence to safety regulations. Tailor your fire safety plan to address the specific fire risks and needs of your business.

Fire extinguishers should ideally be stored in environments with temperatures that do not exceed the manufacturer's recommended range, typically between -40°C to 49°C. Storing extinguishers within this temperature range helps maintain the integrity of the extinguishing agent and the internal components of the extinguisher.

Extreme temperatures can potentially impact the effectiveness and functionality of the extinguisher:

• High Temperatures: Excessive heat can cause the pressure inside the extinguisher to increase, potentially leading to leaks or rupture of the cylinder. It might also affect the properties of the extinguishing agent, impacting its effectiveness in combating fires.
• Low Temperatures: Extremely cold temperatures can cause the extinguishing agent to freeze or thicken, affecting its ability to discharge properly in case of a fire. Storage in -40°C can result in the valve or hose cracking. 

Therefore, it's essential to store fire extinguishers in areas where temperatures remain within the recommended range, avoiding exposure to direct sunlight, heaters, or freezing conditions. Check the manufacturer's guidelines for specific storage recommendations and ensure the extinguishers are easily accessible in case of an emergency. Regularly inspect the extinguishers to ensure they remain in good condition and are ready for use.