Northeastern Masonry and Chimney Logo with Santa and Joe Shear. Trust two people in your chimney-Santa and me.

Over 35 Years of Service

1650 US Route 9W,
Selkirk NY 12158

Call Us Today

You might not think about your fire extinguisher often, but it’s a vital tool when an emergency rises and you need an immediate way to contain a small fire before it escalates. It’s not enough to own a fire extinguisher, though. You also need to know how to use one properly. That knowledge can make a critical difference in protecting lives and property.

Using a Fire Extinguisher: PASS

The easiest way to lock the steps for using a fire extinguisher in your memory is by employing the PASS method. It’s a simple acronym that’s straight to the point, reminding you what to do when you need to respond quickly. PASS represents the following four actions: pull, aim, squeeze, and sweep.

original infographic explaining PASS fire extinguisher technique
  • Pull: On the handle of your fire extinguisher is a pin or ring. Make sure to familiarize yourself with it now, before you need to use it. That pin or ring is a safety measure that prevents accidental discharge of your fire extinguisher. In the case of an actual fire, you want to discharge the contents of your fire extinguisher – so the pin has got to go! Pull the pin so that the extinguishing agent will discharge when the handle is squeezed.
  • Aim: Before you squeeze the handle, take aim. Resist the temptation to aim directly for the flames or start discharging the extinguisher at random. To be the most effective, direct the extinguishing agent at the source of the flames. You’re trying to cut the fire off where its fuel source is, so you’ll aim low and focus on where the fire is burning most intensely.
  • Squeeze: With the nozzle or hose aimed at the base of the fire, squeeze the handle to discharge the extinguishing agent. Use a steady, controlled motion to evenly and effectively release the contents of the extinguisher in a controlled manner.
  • Sweep: Keeping the handle squeezed, sweep the nozzle from side to side, covering the entire base of the fire and working to the outsides until the flames are completely extinguished. Be thorough, because the fire can reignite if it isn’t fully smothered.

The PASS method is designed to be intuitive so you remember it when needed. It’s a great idea to recall it regularly, perhaps reciting the steps to yourself as you test your fire alarm batteries every month.

What Type of Fire Extinguisher Do I Need?

A fire extinguisher can be a life and property saving tool. Proper use of an extinguisher begins before you pull the pin however. You also need to select the right extinguisher for the potential hazards in your home and make sure it stays set up for success.

  • Choose the right type. There are different types of fire extinguishers designed for different classes of fires. They don’t all work the same way, so matching your extinguisher to the type of fire you may encounter in your environment is key. For example, Class A extinguishers are suitable for ordinary combustibles, such as wood or paper, while Class B is for flammable liquids, and Class C responds to electrical fires. Class K fires are fueled by fats and cooking oils you might find in a kitchen. Some extinguishers work with multiple classes of fire. 
  • Place your extinguisher wisely. You should install your extinguishers in easily accessible locations, such as near exits, and in areas that are prone to fire risks – for example kitchens, workshops, and near fireplaces. Make sure those in your home know where the extinguishers are and can access them.
  • Inspection and maintenance. While you hope you never need to use your extinguishers, you shouldn’t just forget about them. Instead, inspect them regularly to make sure they’re properly pressurized and in good condition. Manufacturer guidelines should dictate how you maintain your extinguisher, and if you notice signs of damage or deterioration you should take action to remedy the situation.
  • Training. Make sure each member of your household knows how to use your extinguishers effectively, and refresh their training periodically to reinforce how they should be used. Also, make sure they know when to evacuate and call for help.

Staying Ahead of Fire Risks

Knowing how to respond to a fire is crucial, but taking steps to prevent them is even better. Some important fire safety measures for homes with fireplaces include:

  • Chimney inspections and cleaning. Regular chimney inspections and sweepings help identify and eliminate fire hazards, such as the build-up of creosote or debris, in chimney flues. They also ensure proper drafting and functionality of your chimney, which promotes safe operation.
  • Spark arrestors and screens. Installing spark arrestor or screens on chimney caps prevents errant sparks or embers from escaping out your chimney and igniting nearby combustible materials, such as dry leaves or roof shingles.
  • Burning the right fuel. A home heating appliance should only use the fuel it was designed to burn. If you have a wood burning appliance, that means using seasoned firewood to reduce creosote buildup. Burning green or wet wood can increase the risk of chimney fires.
  • Maintain clearances. You should keep a clearance of at least three feet around your fireplace. Keep combustible materials like furniture, curtains, and other decor at least that far from your fire.

In addition to these, make sure that children and pets are kept a safe distance from the fireplace, and that the fire itself isn’t ever left unattended – meaning you never leave the house or go to bed until your fire is extinguished.

In addition to being ready to use your extinguishers, ensure you have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors strategically installed throughout your home, and test them regularly.

Be Prepared, Be Safe…Trust Us

As a comprehensive chimney care company, safety is one of our top priorities. If your chimney is due for an inspection, you have questions about its performance, or would like to talk about upgrades for safety or efficiency, don’t hesitate to reach out today.

Our sister company  sells beautiful Fireplaces & Accessories.
Click HERE to see our site.

Review Our Services

NE Chimney Facebook Reviews
4.7 stars on Google logo in the basic colors.
Sweep Away Cancer logo in pink with shadow of chimney sweep.
CSIA Certified Chimney Logo
National Chimney Sweep Guild Member Logo

1650 US Route 9W,
Selkirk NY 12158

Showroom for Fireplace – Hours

Monday – Friday : 7:00 am – 5:00 pm
Sat – Sun : Closed

We Offer 6 month Financing 

Call Us Today!

We Accept Credit Cards

MasterCard, Visa, American Express and Discover images of payment options.

© Northeastern Masonry & Chimney. All Rights Reserved. | Privacy Policy | Sitemap