The recent recall of nearly 40 million Kidde fire extinguishers means many households may find themselves without suitable fire extinguishers. So if you're in the market for a new fire extinguisher, Consumer Reports says you should take this chance to familiarize yourself with it, and how to use it.
Home fires can be unpredictable and deadly. That's why having properly working fire extinguishers around your home could save your life. Consumer Reports and fire safety experts recommend keeping multipurpose fire extinguishers for your home.
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"You want to have the most common type of fire extinguisher, which will be an A-B-C fire extinguisher that will extinguish the three types of common fires, which is wood and paper, which is a class A; Class B which is flammable liquids; and a Class C is going to be electrical fires," fire and rescue chief Alider Pratts said.
"Along with owning a working fire extinguisher, it's essential that you know how to use it in an emergency. When you bring home your new fire extinguisher, take the time to read the owner's manual and be sure to register it with the manufacturer," said Don Huber, of Consumer Reports Product Safety.
Know these steps: First, look at the pressure gauge to make sure the fire extinguisher is fully charged. Then follow the PASS method to use it:
- PULL the pin to break the seal.
- AIM the nozzle at the base of the fire while standing about 8 feet from it.
- SQUEEZE the handle slowly and evenly.
- Then SWEEP from side to side until fire is completely extinguished.
Keep a fire extinguisher no more than 10 feet from the kitchen, in the laundry room and garage.
Mount the extinguisher in its bracket -- in a convenient location and in plain sight -- 3.5 to 5 feet above the ground to prevent damage to it and so it's out of the reach of small children.
Consumer Reports offers a fire extinguisher buying guide with comprehensive advice on which types to use in different spaces, and how to store and maintain them. You can find more information on its website.