Need help right now?
If someone needs immediate help with fire extinguisher, use emergency mode.
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DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — You have a fire extinguisher and a small, contained fire with a clear escape route behind you.
The essentials if you need to act right now.
Exit behind you. PASS at base of fire. Leave if not out fast. Call 101.
What might I see? Observable signs — no diagnosis required.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Fire is small — no larger than a wastebasket or small pan.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — You have a clear escape route behind you at all times.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Extinguisher rating matches fire type (check label).
Optional deeper explanation — not required to act.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Fire extinguishers are designed for small incipient fires, not established room fires.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Different types exist for grease, electrical, and ordinary combustibles — wrong type can spread fire.
Check the scene before you approach.
Civilian-safe actions you can take.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Pull the safety pin on the extinguisher.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Stand 2-3 meters away with exit at your back.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Aim the nozzle at the base of flames, not the top.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Squeeze the handle and sweep side to side at the fire base.
When and how to get professional help.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Extinguishers are for very small early fires only. Evacuation always takes priority over fighting fire.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Call 101 if fire is not fully out or if you used the extinguisher.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Report fire type and whether smoke remains.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Professional inspection may be needed even after successful use.
Dangerous actions, when not to attempt rescue, and common myths.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Do NOT use an extinguisher on a large or spreading fire.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Do NOT use water-type extinguisher on grease or electrical fire.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Do NOT turn your back on fire or block your only exit.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Any fire extinguisher works on any fire
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Using the wrong type — especially water on grease or electrical — makes fire worse. When unsure, get out.
Other scenarios in the same family.
Mixed chemicals
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Bleach and acid, bleach and ammonia, or other cleaners were mixed and fumes are rising.
CO alarm
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Your carbon monoxide detector is beeping or alarming.
CO poisoning
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — People show signs of carbon monoxide poisoning from heater, generator, or enclosed fire.
Child electrical shock
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — A child has touched an electrical socket, bitten a cord, or pulled a live plug.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Watch for re-ignition — be ready to leave immediately.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — If fire is not out within 10-15 seconds, evacuate and call 101.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Back toward your exit while watching the fire.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Any fire that required an extinguisher should be checked by fire services.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Smoke inhalation during use needs medical evaluation.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Spreading fire or electrocution from wrong extinguisher.