Only tackle a fire if it's small, you've raised the alarm and you have a clear way out behind you. If in doubt, get out.
Remember PASS
- Pull the safety pin.
- Aim the hose or horn at the base of the fire, not the flames.
- Squeeze the handle.
- Sweep from side to side until the fire is out.
Good to Know
- Stand a safe distance back (a couple of metres) and keep the exit behind you.
- With CO2, hold the extinguisher by its handle, not the horn – the horn gets extremely cold. Ventilate the room afterwards.
- With wet chemical on a fryer, turn off the heat if it's safe to, and apply gently with the lance so the oil doesn't splash. Empty the contents fully to prevent re-ignition.
- Never use water or foam on burning cooking oil.
- On electrical equipment, use CO2 – or a water-based extinguisher only if its label shows it has passed the dielectric test (approved up to 1000 volts), keeping the distance shown on the label. See Fire Classes Explained.
- Watch for the fire re-igniting, and call 999 even if you think it's out.
After use, an extinguisher needs to be recharged or replaced – even if only a little came out.
Never Test It or Have a Quick Spray
Never test an extinguisher or give it a quick squirt to see if it works. Extinguishers are designed to discharge their full contents in one go. A quick spray often stops the valve sealing properly, so the pressure slowly leaks away – leaving you with an extinguisher that won't work when you need it.
Worth remembering… your fire risk assessment is what decides the equipment your premises need. This guide is general advice, not a substitute for it.
Not sure what you need? Get in touch with our team – we'll be delighted to help. No pressure. No sales patter.