When Should You Not Use a Fire Extinguisher?

Fire extinguishers can be lifesaving tools in an emergency, yet their misuse could put lives at risk. While consulting the fire department first and using fire extinguishers if necessary is always recommended, using one yourself may also prove effective – make sure the fire is small and contained, there’s an escape route behind you, and that you have been trained on its proper usage before trying any methods on your own. If any concerns arise during use or afterwards it would be best to evacuate and call in professional services from outside.

At best, fire extinguishers should only be used in an emergency, but even then there may be circumstances where using one isn’t appropriate. Not only could you risk getting burned by the heat of the flames themselves but you may also inhale toxic fumes such as hydrogen cyanide, carbon monoxide or acrolein which could have devastating effects on your health and be especially hazardous in large doses.

At all costs, remember to never fight fires that shouldn’t be put out – whether this means not having access to an appropriate extinguisher type or handling too large of an incident.

Use of a fire extinguisher on chemical or electrical fires should also be avoided, since these fires are very difficult to extinguish without increasing risk to you or those nearby if attempted – particularly if rubber gloves or skin is exposed.

If you work in an unsafe area, your employer may instruct you not to use a fire extinguisher at all. This is due to certain materials releasing toxic fumes such as acrolein, acrolene and cyanide when burned – this smoke can be toxic even at low concentrations and poses potential threats. In such circumstances, it would be better for you to evacuate immediately, activate your company emergency plan and call 911 rather than trying to fight the flames yourself.

If you decide to use a fire extinguisher, it’s essential that you follow the PASS acronym: Pull, Aim, Squeeze and Sweep. Having someone on hand who can assist if something goes amiss would also be beneficial. Once used, back away slowly as it may flare back up again after usage; remember evacuation afterward as well. Furthermore, regular fire drills should be held at work so all employees understand what steps need to be taken if an actual fire occurs – this helps save both downtime and helps keep employees safe.