DIY Network

All About Extinguishers Learn how to effectively use a variety of fire extinguishers. From "Your Home Make It Safe" episode YHM-101

Fire fact: A fire doubles in size every minute that it is allowed to burn freely. (Continued below)

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Extinguishers come in a variety of sizes, ratings and price ranges. It's important to install the right type in the right area.

If a small fire breaks out, you might be able to safely and quickly extinguish it--with the right equipment. Here, Sergeant Dennis Rucker and host Tom Corvin discuss some of the types of extinguishers and how to use them effectively.

• The three most important areas to install a fire extinguisher are the kitchen, the garage and the basement. In the kitchen, always keep the extinguisher near an exit door (you'll want to have the door behind you -- for quick escape--when trying to extinguish the fire). In the garage, place the extinguisher near the door through which you enter the home. In the basement, place the extinguisher where it is handiest--perhaps at the landing of the stairs, away from any debris or stored items.

• To use the extinguisher, remember the "PASS" acronym. First PULL the pin. Next, AIM the nozzle. SQUEEZE the handle, and SWEEP from side-to-side as you extinguish the flames.

Selecting and Installing an Extinguisher

Extinguishers come in types A, B or C.

• A - use on plastics, wood or paper
• B - flammable liquids such as kerosene or gasoline
• C - effective on electrical fires, such as those caused by the overheating of computers, appliances or VCRs.

Most extinguishers have a shelf life of five to seven years. Expect to pay $10 to 15 for a smaller model; $15 to 30 for a larger one.

Extinguishers are easily mounted: simply pre-drill holes into a wall stud and screw mounting bracket to the wall. Secure the bracket with wood screws for increased stability, then attach the extinguisher to the bracket.

RESOURCES :

The Home Depot Information

To locate the Home Depot store nearest you, click here.

The Home Depot U.S.A. Inc.
Website: www.homedepot.com

Stop Drop and Roll (A Book about Fire Safety)
Model: 0689843550
Author: Margery Cuyler and Arthur Howard (Illustrator)
Simon & Schuster
New York, NY 10020
Phone: Private
Fax: Private
Email: ssonline_feedback@simonsays.com
Website: www.simonsays.com

Home Fire Drills
Model: 0736801952
Author: Lucia Raatma
Capstone Press (Bridgestone Books)
Mankato, MN 56002-0669
Fax: 888-262-0705

Living Safe in an Unsafe World: The Complete Guide to Family Preparedness
Model: 0451409329
Author: Kate Kelly

Fire Prevention and Education Materials
U.S. Fire Administration
Website: http://www.usfa.fema.gov/dhtml/public/fserd.cfm

GUESTS :
Sgt. Dennis Rucker
Phone: 770-499-3855
Website: www.cobbfire.org
Cobb County Fire Safety