Insurance Corner: The ABC's of fire extinguishers

Using fire extinguishers to put out a small fire, or contain it until firefighters arrive, can save lives and property.

To be effective, your extinguisher must fit the fire, so learn your ABCs.

An "A" extinguisher is for ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, and plastic.

"B" is for flammable liquids like gasoline, grease, oil paint, and flammable gas.

"C" is for live electrical wiring and devices.

Once you have the right kind of extinguisher, remember the PASSword for using it: Pull the pin, Aim low, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep from side to side, keeping the extinguisher aimed at the base of the fire.

You should definitely have a fire extinguisher in the kitchen, where cooking fires are a constant hazard.

Keep an extinguisher in any area where you're worried about a fire, such as near a fireplace, or in the basement.

Keep your extinguishers easily accessible, preferably bracketed to the wall. Don't keep them in a place that could be difficult to get to if a fire breaks out, such as on the back of the stove.

Remember, before you begin to fight a small fire make sure that everyone has left the home or building, and that the fire department has been called. A small fire could become a major blaze in minutes.

You should create an escape plan for your household, so that everyone knows how to get out and where to go in the event of a fire. Like you did in school, practice fire drills.

Don't use any extinguishers unless you know exactly what to do, and still have a clear exit.

If your escape route could be blocked, forget about trying to fight the fire and get out immediately.

Mark Guergis

Registered Insurance Broker

Aim Insurance Brokers Ltd. 705-424-7676

General insurance brokers with offices in Angus and Innisfil.

We will provide material from within our office and other members of the industry to hopefully help you have a greater understanding of home, auto and business insurance products.