Now is the time to ensure that you have a fire extinguisher and evacuation plan for every floor of your home including the kitchen and garage. A 5 lb. ABC extinguisher is ideal. It is also a good idea to carry a fire extinguisher in your vehicle as well. For those with fire extinguishers already in place, check the pressurization gauge on each extinguisher and have them recharged if needed. Some small kitchen BC extinguishers may not be refillable but usually have a pressure test button on top to verify operability. Turning your extinguishers upside down a couple of times on a regular basis (monthly) will help keep the contents in suspension for optimum use. In case of fire, call 9-1-1, initiate your family evacuation plan and then attempt to put a small fire (no bigger than a waste basket) out. Remember to PASS, Pull the locking pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle and Sweep left and right across the base of the fire.
This information has been provided for our CERT group’s use courtesy of GetReadyGear
A Blog for the Peninsula CERT Community 