Recommendations for when to use a Fire Extinguisher 

The New Zealand Fire Service recommend that a Fire Extinguisher should only be used in the following circumstances.

After everyone has been evacuated and accounted for at a safe meeting place.

After the Fire Service has been called.

When it is safe to do so considering the size and location of the fire.

Access to the fire is unrestricted and a safe retreat is possible at all times.

Remember life is more important than property, don't put yourself or others at risk.

Only when everyone is outside and the Fire Service has been called, should you attempt to put the fire out, and only if it is contained and you can safely escape.

How to Properly Use an Extinguisher 

Always read the instructions on the extinguisher when you first receive it! This will tell you what type of fire the extinguisher will put out and the recommended distance to be from the fire for the type of extinguisher you have. 

The best way to remember how to use a Fire Extinguisher is the word PASS.

Pull the pin - there will be a pin on the top of the extinguisher embeded in the handle. Pulling this out will allow you to discharge the extinguisher.

Aim at the base of the fire - You need to aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire and not the flames. The flames rise from the fuel the fire is using, if you smother or cool down the fuel with the extinguisher this will offer a much higher chance of putting the fire out.

Squeeze the extinguisher lever slowly - This will release the extinguishing substance in the direction the nozzle is facing.

Sweep from side to side - Work the extinguisher in a sweeping motion from left to right at the recommended distance until the fire is out.

Ten Fire Safety Tips

1. Always have operating smoke alarms in your home.

2. Never leave matches where children can reach them in the home.

3. Do not go to bed with an electric blanket still on.

4. Never fill petrol engines with petrol when it is still hot.

5. Do not allow candles to be used in unstable holders.

6. Always have frayed electrical cords repaired.

7. Always place hot ashes into non combustible containers.

8. Make sure cigarette butts are extinguished in safe places.

9. When you go on holiday, turn off all of your appliances and pull the plug out.

10. Do not leave pans of cooking oil or fat on the ranges unattended.