Fire Extinguishers

A portable fire extinguisher can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or containing it until the fire department arrives. But you need the right type, you need to know how to use it, and you need to know when to leave the fire to us.

Know Before You Go

Only attempt to fight a fire if:

  • Everyone has evacuated or is evacuating
  • Someone has called 911
  • The fire is small and contained (like a wastebasket)
  • You have a clear escape route behind you
  • You have the right type of extinguisher
  • You know how to use it

If any of these aren't true—get out and call 911. Your safety is more important than any property.

Fire Classes

Different fires require different extinguishers. Using the wrong type can be ineffective or dangerous.

Class What's Burning Examples
A Ordinary combustibles Paper, wood, cloth, plastic
B Flammable liquids Gasoline, oil, paint, solvents
C Electrical equipment Appliances, motors, wiring
K Cooking oils/grease Kitchen fires (commercial)

Choosing an Extinguisher for Your Home

ABC Multi-Purpose (Recommended for Most Homes)

An ABC-rated extinguisher handles the most common household fires—paper, wood, flammable liquids, and electrical. This is the best all-around choice for home use.

Look for: A minimum rating of 2-A:10-B:C

  • The number before "A" indicates capacity for ordinary combustibles
  • The number before "B" indicates capacity for flammable liquids
  • "C" means it's safe for electrical fires (no number rating)

Kitchen Extinguishers

For kitchens, consider a Class K or BC extinguisher specifically rated for grease fires. Never use water on a grease fire—it will cause the fire to spread violently.

Tip: A lid or baking sheet can smother a small pan fire. Turn off the heat and cover the pan.

Where to Place Extinguishers

NFPA recommends at least one extinguisher on every level of your home:

  • Kitchen — Near the exit, not directly next to the stove
  • Garage — Where flammable liquids are stored
  • Bedroom hallway — For quick access at night
  • Workshop/basement — Near the exit

Mount extinguishers where they're visible and accessible, ideally near exits so you can escape if the fire grows.

How to Use an Extinguisher (PASS)

Remember PASS:

  1. Pull the pin — This unlocks the handle
  2. Aim at the base of the fire — Not the flames
  3. Squeeze the handle — This releases the agent
  4. Sweep side to side — Cover the entire base of the fire

Stand 6-8 feet away. Most extinguishers discharge for only 10-20 seconds, so aim carefully.

Inspection and Maintenance

Fire extinguishers need regular attention:

Monthly:

  • Check that it's in its designated place
  • Verify the pressure gauge is in the green zone
  • Look for visible damage, rust, or leakage
  • Ensure the pin and tamper seal are intact

Annually:

  • Have extinguishers professionally inspected

Replace:

  • Disposable extinguishers: every 12 years
  • Rechargeable extinguishers: after each use (have them serviced)
  • Any extinguisher that fails inspection

After Any Fire

Even if you put out a small fire yourself:

  1. Call 911 — Let us verify the fire is completely out
  2. Evacuate — Hidden embers can reignite
  3. Don't re-enter — Wait for firefighters to clear the scene

Fires can smolder inside walls or ceilings. We have thermal cameras to check for hidden hot spots.

Resources

Questions about fire extinguishers or home fire safety? Contact us—we're happy to help.