Gulf Coast Fire & Safety Inc

Purple K fire extinguishers are hand-held, pressure-stored extinguishers that are the most effective for Class B fires, although they can be used quite effectively in a Class C fire. Purple Ks are also recommended for service bays and garages.

Carbon dioxide extinguishers are best in fighting fires involving flammable or combustible liquids or electrical equipment. They don’t work well on ordinary combustible fires, as they may not be able to displace enough oxygen to put the fire out completely.

Fire experts say the biggest extinguishers are best for the garage, while the five-pound model is a good idea for critical areas inside your home, such as the kitchen or laundry room. There are also two-pound extinguishers that you can keep in your car.

When using portable space heaters, be sure to keep them at least 3 feet from anything that could burn. Do not leave them on overnight while you are sleeping.

Did you know that fire extinguishers need to be inspected at least once a year to ensure they are working properly? However, older fire extinguishers, especially those older than six years, should be inspected, taken apart, examined, and recharged.

Did you know that not all fire extinguishers are appropriate for every purpose? Depending on the nature of your business, you may find that it’s necessary to have different types of extinguishers to deal with the different types of fires.

Where should you put a fire extinguisher? The National Fire Protection Association recommends an easy-to-reach spot near an exit and suggests that every home have at least one fire extinguisher on each floor.

Did you know that 29 percent of house fires start in the kitchen from grease fires, unattended food that is cooking, or mechanical failure? The bedroom is the second-most-common area for fires, since 13 percent of house fires begin here.

The type of extinguisher you need for your business depends on the flammable materials or fire hazards present, the risk of fire and fire related injuries, and the applicable fire codes. We will conduct a site evaluation to determine your needs.

If you have any doubts about the quality of your fire extinguisher, do not be afraid to throw it out and purchase a new one to replace it.

Some of the main types of fire extinguishers available on the market today include dry chemical, foam, water, wet chemical and water additives, clean agents and carbon dioxide, Class D, fire extinguishing balls, and condensed aerosol fire suppression extinguishers.

PASS is a simple acronym to remind you how to operate most fire extinguishers. P-pull the pin at the top of the cylinder. A-aim the nozzle at the base of the fire. S-squeeze the handle. S-sweep the contents from side to side at the base of the fire until it goes out.