A portable fire extinguisher (PFE) is a first line of defense tool designed to suppress small, incipient fires. Knowing how to operate this device effectively is crucial. This article focuses on the correct distance for use, which directly impacts both personal safety and the extinguisher’s ability to suppress the fire. Using an extinguisher from the wrong distance can render the agent ineffective or expose the user to unnecessary risk from heat and smoke.
Assessing the Fire Risk
Before using a PFE, quickly determine if the fire is small enough to fight and whether it is safe to do so. The primary safety consideration is always a clear and unobstructed escape route behind you, allowing for immediate evacuation if the fire escalates. Never position yourself where the fire could block your only way out.
The fire must be small and contained, such as a wastebasket fire or a small grease fire, and not spreading rapidly. You must also confirm that the extinguisher is rated for the specific class of fire you are facing, as using the wrong agent can be dangerous or entirely ineffective. If any doubt exists about the fire’s manageability or the extinguisher’s suitability, evacuate the area immediately and call emergency services.
Determining the Optimal Distance
The distance for discharging the extinguishing agent balances personal safety with maximizing the agent’s effectiveness. For most common ABC dry chemical extinguishers, the recommended starting range is between 6 and 10 feet from the fire. This range keeps the operator away from immediate heat and smoke while remaining within the agent’s effective discharge stream.
The extinguishing agent must reach the fuel source at the base of the fire to be effective. Starting too close can disperse the burning material, potentially spreading the fire. Starting too far away results in the agent dissipating before it can cover the fire’s base. As the fire diminishes, slowly move closer to maintain optimal stream coverage over the remaining fuel.
Mastering the P.A.S.S. Technique
Once the correct distance has been established, the use of the extinguisher follows a simple, four-step process known by the acronym P.A.S.S.
P – Pull
Pull the pin to break the tamper seal and unlock the operating mechanism, preparing the extinguisher for immediate use.
A – Aim
Aim the nozzle or hose low at the base of the fire, which is the source of the fuel, not the visible flames. Attacking the base is necessary to interrupt the chemical chain reaction.
S – Squeeze
Squeeze the handle to discharge the extinguishing agent, releasing the pressurized contents.
S – Sweep
Sweep the nozzle from side to side across the base of the fire. This sweeping motion ensures the agent covers the entire burning area. Continue sweeping until the fire appears completely extinguished, noting that most portable extinguishers have a limited discharge duration of 10 to 25 seconds.
Post-Extinguishment Safety Protocol
After the visible flames are gone, the danger of re-ignition remains, particularly with Class A fires involving ordinary combustibles. The user must continue to observe the area closely for several minutes to ensure no smoldering materials reignite the fire. If the fire flares up again, the remaining agent should be used immediately to suppress it.
The operator should back away from the extinguished area slowly, maintaining a constant visual on the scene and keeping the escape route accessible. Even if the fire appears to be completely out, it is important to contact emergency services for inspection. They can confirm the fire is fully extinguished and check for hidden hot spots that could lead to a secondary fire. The area should also be ventilated, if safe to do so, to clear the space of smoke and the residue from the extinguishing agent.