Check fire extinguishers as precaution

Published Feb. 6, 2014
By 60th Civil Engineer Squadron Fire Flight
60th Civil Engineer Squadron fire flight

TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- Fire extinguisher refresher training is an important skill that can save lives in an emergency.

First, individuals must verify that they have an A-B-C fire extinguisher. These can combat ordinary combustibles, grease, and fires caused by electronics.

Facility managers should conduct a monthly inspection of the extinguishers looking for damage, missing parts or anything that will prevent operation.

Other things to keep in mind are to make sure the extinguisher is charged. The yellow arrow indicator must be within the green range on the sight glass.

Make sure to shake the extinguisher to ensure the agent inside stays mixed and not settling.

Remember how to use it by the acronym PASS:

Pull the pin.

Aim the extinguisher.

Squeeze the handle.

Sweep side to side at the base of the fire.

If you cannot extinguish the fire, drop the extinguisher, evacuate and activate the fire alarm by using the pull-station handles located at the nearest exit. Also, dial 9-1-1 from any base line or 424-4911 from a cellular phone.

Try to be as descriptive as possible with the location, street and building where the fire is located. Stay safe.