It also means knowing how to stop a fire once it starts. Teaching your team the basics of fire fighting could reduce fire damage at your workplace.
There are 3 common types of fires: ordinary combustibles, like paper, wood, and trash; flammable liquids, greases, or gases; and energized electrical equipment. Fire extinguishers are built to put out one or more of these classes of fires. Become familiar with your workplace’s fire extinguishers today.
Steps to fire fighting:
- Evacuate the building and call the fire department.
- Know your escape route.
- Know your fire extinguisher. What types of fire will it extinguish?
- Leave the building if your safety is threatened.
Never fight a fire if you are unsure about the type of extinguisher or how to use it. Never fight a fire if it is spreading or blocks your escape route.
Think “PASS” to extinguish flames:
- P – Pull the pin.
- A – Aim the extinguisher nozzle at the base of the flames.
- S – Squeeze the trigger while the holding the extinguisher upright.
- S – Sweep from side to side, covering the base of the fire with the extinguishing agent.
Checklist:
- Is there a fire extinguisher for every 3000 square feet of your workplace? Is there one on each floor adjacent to stairways?
- Have your fire extinguishers been inspected within the last year?
- Does your team know where the fire extinguishers are located?
- Does your team know how to operate the fire extinguishers?
Thought Provokers
- How can we help our team become more knowledgeable about fighting fires at our workplace?
- What types of fires will our fire extinguishers put out? Are they in working order?
- Are there any specific points or problems you wish to discuss?
For any further questions or assistance with you insurance needs, please call us at Pardridge Insurance today – 815-758-4447.