Everything you need to know about fire extinguishers

The Basics You Need to Know About Fire Extinguishers

October 5, 2022

How do fire extinguishers work, and what you need to know 

Fire extinguishers are one of the most important tools that firefighters and homeowners have at their disposal for combating fires. However, not everyone knows how to use them properly or safely. In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about fire extinguishers so that you can be prepared in the event of a fire. Remember, fire extinguishers are for small and easily controllable fires, not big ones. For an emergency or medium to big fire, call 911 right away.

 

How Fire Extinguishers Work

Fire extinguishers work by interrupting one of the three elements that are necessary for a fire to exist and spread. These elements are heat, oxygen, and fuel. By spraying a fire with an extinguisher, you can remove one or more of these elements and prevent the fire from spreading. 

 

Types of Fire Extinguishers

There are four main types of fire extinguishers: water, foam, dry powder, and carbon dioxide (CO2). Water extinguishers are only effective on Class A fires, which are fires that involve organic materials like wood or paper. Foam extinguishers are effective on Class A and B fires, which are fires that involve flammable liquids like gasoline or oil. Dry powder extinguishers can be used on Class A, B, and C fires, which are electrical fires. CO2 extinguishers can be used on Class B and C fires. 

 

Certain types of fire extinguishers are required by law for commercial properties and businesses. Please refer to your local building and safety code for the appropriate fire extinguisher. For home and personal use, you will want to get a fire extinguisher that is a 2-A:10-B:C rated extinguisher. Again, always refer to the image and recommendation on the fire extinguisher, contact our team at Fire End, or ask your local fire department for recommendations for your unique situation. 

 

For fire fighters, you will want to make sure you have each option accessible in the case of any emergency whether on duty or not. As a firefighter, police officer, or first responder, you are really never “off duty” as you know. So, having a set of accessible fire extinguishers will keep you and those around you safe at all times in the event of the beginning stages of a fire.

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

When using a fire extinguisher, it is important to remember the acronym PASS: 

 

P – Pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher. This will break the tamper seal and allow you to discharge the contents of the extinguisher. 

A – Aim low. Point the nozzle of the extinguisher at the base of the fire. 

S – Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly. 

S – Sweep from side to side until the fire is extinguished. 

 

Once the fire appears to be out, release the handle and allow the agent to continue discharging for 15-20 seconds to ensure that the fire does not reignite. Finally, replace or recharge the fire extinguisher according to manufacturer instructions. 

 

When to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Ideally, you should only use a fire extinguisher when the fire is small and contained in a single area. You should also make sure that there is an exit nearby in case you need to quickly evacuate. If the fire is too large or if you are not confident in your ability to put it out, evacuating immediately is always your best option. 

 

A fire extinguisher can be a lifesaver in a small fire emergency. It is important to know how they work and how to use them properly. Remember, only use a fire extinguisher when the fire is small and contained in one area with an exit nearby. If you have any doubts about your ability to put out the fire safely, evacuate immediately and call 911.

 

Fire Extinguisher Safety Conclusion

Hopefully this blog post has given you a better understanding of how fire extinguishers work and how to use them properly. Remember, in the event of a fire, time is of the essence! If you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to use an extinguisher, make sure to follow the steps outlined above so that you can put out the fire as quickly and efficiently as possible. If you would like to order your own home or commercial business fire extinguishers, see what we have available here at Fire End – Fire Extinguishers. Our representatives are happy to answer any questions you have about which fire extinguisher is right for you. Call us today at 1-800-759-3473 or Contact us here. Stay safe!

 

what-to-expect-from-a-firefighter-lifestyle

What To Expect From A Career Firefighter Lifestyle

September 12, 2022

What it takes to have a career as a firefighter

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to have a career as a firefighter, and what to expect from a firefighter lifestyle? It’s a demanding but rewarding career that comes with its own unique set of challenges. Firefighters are some of the most important people in our communities. They are the ones who run into burning buildings to save lives and property.

Firefighters are the trained professionals who put their own lives at risk to help others, and are the first responders to car accidents and natural disasters. If you are thinking of becoming a firefighter, there are a few things you should know about the lifestyle. Here’s a glimpse into what you can expect from a firefighter lifestyle.

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fire hook firefighting tool arsenal

The Hows and Whys of Fire Hooks: The Most Utilized Tool in the Fire Fighting Arsenal

August 8, 2022

Today we’ll talk about the hows and whys of fire hooks, the most utilized tool in the fire fighting arsenal. Shopping for a new fire hook can be overwhelming because there are so many different options available. When it comes to selecting your new fire hook, you will want to make sure it gets the job done every-time no matter what since lives are often at stake. In an emergency you need to be able to rely on your tools, which is why we are going to break down the hows and whys of fire hooks in today’s blog.

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combat sniper attack fire hose

Product Spotlight: The Key Combat Sniper Attack Fire Hose

July 11, 2022

The Key Combat Sniper Attack Fire Hose

The Game Changing Fire Hose You Must Have

Be sure to check this blog regularly for new products updates!

If you’re looking for an Attack hose that can be used from land to sea then the Key Combat Sniper Attack Hose is the perfect addition to your fire ending tool bag. This Combat Sniper Attack Hose is treated with a special “Key-Lok” polyurethane based polymer impregnation for enhanced color and added abrasion resistance. This Sniper Attack hose stands out from the rest with its striking, high-visibility colors and stripes running the full length of the hose so you can spot it in a flash.

What Makes the Key Combat Sniper Attack Fire Hose the Best Choice in Attack Fire Hoses?

The Combat Sniper is an operational game-changing attack line with legendary, double jacketed, extruded through-the-weave nitrile/PVC tube construction and true 1.78″ diameter.

Carefully engineered to deliver targeted flows, outstanding kink resistance, and increased handling this hose is one of a kind and a must have!

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Product Spotlight: The Key Fire Hose ECO-10

June 23, 2022

The Key Fire Hose ECO-10

Our Best-Selling Municipal Fire Hose

Be sure to check this blog regularly: we’ll be spotlighting a new hose each month!

When you’re in fire rescue, the last thing that needs to happen is for your equipment to fail. When you and your engine company are called to an emergency, you want to know that your equipment is going to get the job done without any complications. Having the right helmet, boots, and coat is, of course, always a necessity, but a proper hose is vital. The Key Fire Hose ECO-10 is our personal top pick for a robust, rugged mid-range fire hose that won’t fail when you need it most.

Why pick Key?

Key Hose, now a division of KFH Industries, was established in 1988 in Miami, Florida by Charles Genthner. Charlie began with 16 looms purchased from Europe and transformed Key Hose into the largest manufacturer of hose and related products in the world.

In 2010, Key Hose completed a relocation, which began in 2005, from Miami, Florida to Dothan, Alabama. This relocation allowed Key Hose to double its manufacturing space, streamline efficiencies, and increase stock of raw materials and finished goods while conforming to ISO style quality control standards.

Key specializes in the design and manufacture of hose related to the following industries: Municipal Fire Fighting, Industrial, Military, Marine, Mining, Agricultural, Irrigation, and Forestry applications. Key produces hose to meet NFPA, UL, MSHA, FM, FDA, and MIL‑H‑24606 standards.

Hose manufactured by Key designed to meet military specifications and USDA forestry standards have successfully passed first article testing standards set forth by the United States Federal Government.

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Proper storage of your firefighting equipment keeps you safer

Proper Equipment Storage: How It Prolongs the Life of Your Gear (And Keeps You Safe)

May 24, 2022

Firefighters rely on their equipment to do their job safely and effectively, protecting them from harm while fighting fires. However, if this gear is not properly stored, it can quickly deteriorate and become ineffective, resulting in potential safety issues and costly repairs. Proper storage of your firefighting equipment will prolong its life cycle and usefulness.

Some of the most important equipment in use by modern firefighters is their personal protective equipment, the structural firefighting ensemble. A firefighter’s turnout gear ensemble consists of multiple (often expensive) individual items, the collective cost of which represents a substantial combined financial outlay both for the department and the individual firefighter.

Whether initially purchased for a new recruit or bought to supplement or replace the gear of a seasoned team member, the cost of a full protective ensemble (helmet, hood, suspenders, coat, pants, boots, and gloves) can easily rise to the upper range of several thousand dollars.

It is advisedly recommended to follow all proper care procedures (regular cleaning, drying, inspection, etc.) as prescribed by the gear manufacturer. But properly storing turnout gear between uses is also extremely important and can greatly extend the lifespan of an individual’s structural firefighting ensemble.

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What Types of Tools and Equipment Do Search and Rescue Personnel Carry?

April 4, 2022

People who work or volunteer in search and rescue know that it is more of a calling than a job. It’s physically and emotionally demanding, but also adrenaline-infused. It can provide a great sense of purpose. When a search and rescue operation is successful, there are few professionals or volunteers who receive more gratitude.

So what types of tools and equipment do search and rescue personnel carry? PPE, spreaders, cutting tools, forcible entry tools, stabilizing tools, lifting and pulling tools. The types of equipment and tools “carried” will vary, however, as some are light and small enough to easily transport but others are heavy and can only be transported one at a time. Continue reading →

How to Use a Hydra Ram

January 10, 2022

The Hydra Ram is one of the best forcible-entry tools on the market. Because it’s lightweight and powerful, it might be the most firefighter-friendly Hydraulic forcible entry tool available despite its seemingly gently nickname, “The Bunny” or “rabbit tool.”

Yet its power and effectiveness rely on its proper use. This article examines how to use a Hydra Ram: Continue reading →

Firefighter Bailout Systems and Techniques

December 14, 2021

Firefighter bailout systems are, quite literally, lifesaving. Make sure each member of your team has a UL Classified to NFPA 1983 firefighter escape system and they’re each familiar with its use to the point that they can reflexively deploy it for a secure descent when needed.

Fire-End is proud to offer quality firefighter bailout systems including the popular Rock N Rescue brand of escape equipment as well as Sterling Rope bailout systems. Continue reading →