Why Every Home Needs a Fire Extinguisher
The U.S. has the highest death rate from fires of all developed countries in the world. Space heaters, fireplaces, wood-burning stoves, electric blankets, and overloaded electrical circuits make any season a season for fires.
Because so many fires originate in faulty or overloaded wiring, putting out a fire with water can sometimes be dangerous, due to the increased risk of electrocution. Therefore, it is vital for every home to have at least one portable fire extinguisher.
Reading instructions before purchasing a fire extinguisher is critical, because using the wrong type of extinguisher can be hazardous to your health.
Extinguishers are labeled A, B, C, or combinations of these, based on the types of fires:
Class A: Ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, cloth, plastic, or rubber
Class B: Fast burning liquids such as gasoline, cooking oils, and paints, as well as grease or tar
Class C: Electrical fires which call for an extinguisher with non-conducting contents
In general, an "all purpose" extinguisher (labeled ABC) is safe for use on all common household fires.
The label should also include a number indicating how big a fire the extinguisher can handle. A "2" rating means twice as much extinguishing capability as a "1." The C models have no number rating. When purchasing a fire extinguisher:
Make sure the extinguisher is simple and easy to use.
Make sure the extinguisher is easily removable from its wall mounting.
Make sure all family members know how to use the extinguisher.
Place the extinguisher in an easy-access area, i.e., the kitchen.
Regularly check the pressure gauge to make sure pressure has not dropped too low.
If it needs to be recharged, check the instructions, or look in the Yellow Pages under "fire extinguishers."
To make sure your home is adequately protected, call our office at (626) 839-6061 to discuss proper insurance coverages.
We are pleased to provide this "Bulletin" as a service to you. While this information was obtained from sources believed to be reliable, its accuracy is not guaranteed. It does not change or alter insurance contracts or coverages.
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