Everyone should know the rules for using a fire extinguisher, since we can all be in an unexpected and dangerous situation. In principle, the operation of the presented device is not difficult, but it has its own characteristics. For example, you should know in what cases and which fire extinguisher should be used. First, we will deal with the types of devices presented.
Varieties of fire extinguishers
So, there are many classification criteria:
- The dimensions of the device are manual, industrial and mobile. They differ in cylinder volume: from 2 to 10 liters or more.
- By type of starter, a fire extinguisher can be pistol or valve. There are also devices that can operate from a constant source of pressure.
- For the substance that is contained inside the vessel, there are powder, water, gas fire extinguishers.
Principles of using the device
Before using a fire extinguisher, you should definitely understand the principles of its operation. For example, containers with water inside can be used to extinguish solids that burn easily. However, the fluid may contain additional components. They make it possible to extinguish liquid and combustible substances. The rules for using a fire extinguisher of the type presented are quite simple: they can be operated only in the above situations. The fact is that water is able to enter into chemical reactions with other elements and form quite hazardous substances.
The rules for using a fire extinguisher with a gaseous filler provide for the observance of a single safety rule: you must not touch the pipe in them, since you will easily get frostbite. However, such a device will be useless in those cases, if those objects that can burn without access of oxygen burn.
In order to extinguish a chemical substance or an air-mechanical fire, a foam fire extinguisher is most suitable. However, it is not recommended to use it if the electrical equipment is on. Naturally, you cannot use a device to extinguish those substances that can react with water.
Features of using a fire extinguisher OU
In principle, operating such a device is not difficult. It is only necessary to follow certain instructions. The rules for using the OS fire extinguisher include the following steps:
- To begin with, you should approach the source of ignition at a distance of at least 2-3 meters.
- Now point the bell exactly toward the flame and hold it as firmly as possible.
- In order for the fire extinguisher to begin to act, you should break the seal and the pin, which protects the device from automatic operation.
- Now you can open the lock or press the handle. It all depends on the structure of the device.
- After the fire is removed, you need to release the handle or tighten the valve.
Reuse of such a device is only possible after a new filling of the cylinder with carbon dioxide.
Features of the use of powder devices
Before using a fire extinguisher of the type presented, you need to familiarize yourself with the instruction manual:
- Take the device and go to the fire. At the same time, the distance to the flame should not be less than 2 meters.
- In order for the fire extinguisher to take effect, remove the seal and protective pin from it.
- Now accurately point the nozzle at the fire, while not touching it, so as not to get injured (frostbite).
- Note that the device should be held firmly so that the pressure of the contents of the container does not cause the fire extinguisher to fall out of your hands.
- Now press the lever or unscrew the valve. Close or release the locking mechanism only after the ignition has been eliminated.
- If there are other flames, the device can be used again.
When can not I use a powder device?
There are situations in which the use of this device is unacceptable. The rules for using OP fire extinguishers provide for the impossibility of their operation in such cases:
- if you need to extinguish those items that can burn without oxygen;
- if an electrical network or appliance ignites;
- to extinguish any antique values, paintings or books (they can be damaged in the process of eliminating fire).
Some nuances of using and storing a fire extinguisher
You can determine a sufficiently large number of features of the application of the presented device. For example, if you extinguish a flame with several types of fire extinguishers, then you should not direct them at each other. In any situation, it is necessary to observe a certain distance from the flame during extinguishing. This is especially true for burning chemicals or products that flare up easily, as well as electrical appliances that are energized.
The rules for using a fire extinguisher provide for a certain period of continuous operation of the device, which ranges from 2 to 14 seconds. The period is indicated on the information label. During extinguishing, the cylinder must be kept strictly upright. Otherwise, you cannot use all the internal material of the vessel.
The use of a powder fire extinguisher is limited indoors, as it causes severe dust. The same applies to carbon dioxide devices, because they can reduce even a small amount of oxygen in the building. After using the device, it must be sent for recharging, even if there is still a charge left inside.
What can not be done during operation and storage of the device:
- do not allow any damage or dents to appear on the device case;
- you can not hit the balloon;
- a fire extinguisher should not be used if it has a manufacturing defect or a malfunction of the locking mechanism;
- in no case recharge or disassemble the device yourself;
- after use, an unsuitable fire extinguisher should be disposed of;
- Do not use the device for those purposes that are not related to extinguishing the fire;
- during the elimination of the fire, do not direct it towards people.