Determine the source and type of fire:
In an emergency, you first need to calmly determine the location of the fire source and the type of fire. The fire source may be hidden in flammable items or directly exposed. Different types of fires require different types of fire extinguishing agents, such as Class A fires (solid material fires) usually use water-based fire extinguishing agents, and Class B fires (liquid fires) usually use foam or dry powder fire extinguishing agents. Therefore, before approaching the fire source, be sure to determine the type of fire and choose the appropriate fire extinguisher. This step is crucial to ensure the effectiveness of the fire-fighting action.
Extract the fire extinguisher:
After determining the source and type of fire, the next step is to extract the fire extinguisher. When extracting the fire extinguisher, you should stand upwind of the fire source to avoid being trapped by the fire or smoke. At the same time, make sure that the escape route is unobstructed so that you can evacuate quickly when necessary. After extracting the fire extinguisher, unplug the safety pin, which is a key step to ensure that the fire extinguisher can work properly. At this time, you should hold the handle of the fire extinguisher tightly and prepare for the next step.
Point to the fire source:
After extracting the fire extinguisher and unplugging the safety pin, you need to aim the nozzle or hose of the fire extinguisher at the root of the fire source. The root of the fire source is the source of the fire and the focus of the fire extinguishing action. Aiming the nozzle or hose at the root of the fire source can ensure that the fire extinguishing agent can directly act on the fire source, thereby achieving the effect of rapid fire extinguishing. When pointing to the fire source, you should keep your body stable to avoid operating errors due to tension or panic.
Press the valve:
After aiming the nozzle or hose at the fire source, you need to press the handle or button of the fire extinguisher valve hard. This step is the key to releasing the fire extinguishing agent. When pressing the valve, you should maintain a stable force to ensure that the fire extinguishing agent can be sprayed out evenly and continuously. At the same time, pay attention to the reaction of the fire source. If the fire is weakened or extinguished, continue to press the valve until the fire source is completely extinguished. If the fire cannot be controlled or extinguished, evacuate immediately and call the police.
Sweep the fire source:
If the fire source is large or the fire is fierce, you may need to use sweeping to extinguish the fire. Sweeping means moving the nozzle or hose quickly over the fire source to ensure that the fire extinguishing agent can cover the entire fire source area. When sweeping, you must maintain a steady pace and strength to avoid the spread or rebound of the fire due to improper operation. At the same time, pay attention to the changes in the fire source and adjust the spray direction and strength in time.
Observe the fire:
After extinguishing the fire, you need to continue to observe the changes in the fire. If the fire is not completely controlled or extinguished, you should evacuate immediately and call the police. Before waiting for the firefighters to arrive, you can try to use other fire-fighting equipment or items to extinguish the fire, but be sure to ensure your own safety. At the same time, pay attention to the changes in the surrounding environment to avoid greater disasters caused by the spread of the fire.