How to choose the right fire extinguisher for your home

In 1925, President Calvin Coolidge proclaimed the first National Fire Prevention Week, a tradition that, according to the National Archives and Records Administration’s Library Information Center, remains the longest-running public health observance in history. A century later, the need for fire safety is still urgent.  The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that an average of 358,500 home structure fires occur each year.

The leading causes of home fires include:

• Cooking equipment
• Heating equipment
• Electrical issues
• Intentional fires
• Smoking materials

Most of us regularly hear about the importance of keeping smoke detectors in proper working order. However, less attention is given to other essential fire prevention methods. That’s why this is the perfect opportunity to talk about one of the most effective tools you can keep at home: choosing the right fire extinguisher.

Having a fire extinguisher available can be beneficial. However, there are some things to consider before purchasing one.

• Your main priority should be getting out of your home safely. From the time your smoke alarm sounds, experts say you have two minutes or less to get out.
• Don’t exit with your family and then go back in to start extinguishing the fire.
• If a small fire starts in your presence, a fire extinguisher can help prevent it from spreading.

When choosing a fire extinguisher, here’s what you need to know.

Which type of fire extinguisher should you purchase?

There are five types of fire extinguishers. They are A, B, C, D, and K. A, B, and C are often found in homes and businesses.

• Type A extinguishers: Used on ordinary materials, such as cloth, paper, and wood.
• Type B extinguishers: Used on combustible and flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline, oil, and oil-based paints.
• Type C extinguishers: Used on electrical equipment, such as appliances, tools, and other items that are plugged in.
• Type D extinguishers: Used with flammable metals and are found in factories.
• Type K extinguishers: Can be used on vegetable oils, animal oils, and fats in cooking appliances. These extinguishers are used in commercial kitchens, such as restaurants and cafeterias.

For home use, you can select a multi-purpose (A, B, C) extinguisher.

What size of extinguisher is right for your family?

The next thing to consider is weight. The size of the extinguisher needed depends on its use. Common extinguishers can weigh from two to ten pounds.

• A ten-pound extinguisher is more appropriate in places where fire can spread in size more quickly. This size extinguisher would be ideal for a garage or workshop.
• A five-pound extinguisher can be stored in your kitchen or laundry room. Since most home fires start in the kitchen, it makes sense to store it in a nearby pantry or cupboard.
• A two-pound extinguisher can be stored in your car if properly secured.

How do you use a fire extinguisher?

The NFPA suggests remembering the acronym PASS.

P = Pull the pin and hold the extinguisher nozzle away from you.

A = Aim low by pointing at the base of the fire.

S = Squeeze the lever slowly and at a controlled pace.

S = Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

If you decide to purchase a fire extinguisher for your home, be sure to carefully read the instructions. The manufacturer’s guidelines provide important usage tips as well as directions on how to properly maintain your extinguisher over time. You can also contact your local fire department, they often offer classes where you can safely practice using a fire extinguisher, ensuring you’re prepared in case of an emergency.

How to use a fire extinguisher infographic 

Check out our infographic below with the information on how to use a fire extinguisher. Click on the image to download a printable PDF version of the infographic.