Best Practices & Hazards

Hazards exist when it comes to firefighting. Following best practices during an emergency will help reduce hazards, such as:

• Slipping
• Falling
• Becoming trapped
• Getting burned

Best practices help to protect people in the event of a fire and include adhering to guidelines, such as:

• Maintaining clear pathway to exit
• Knowing when to evacuate
• Watching for flare ups
• Watching for slippery floors; not running
• Watching for pallets and boxes
• Turning in extinguishers where pin has been pulled

Additionally, fire extinguishers must be maintained monthly to ensure they are fully operational. Using a checklist as a guide is a good idea, with steps, such as:

• Is each extinguisher in its designated place, clearly visible, and not blocked by equipment, coats, or other objects that could interfere with access during an emergency?
• Is the nameplate with operating instructions legible and facing outward?
• Is the pressure gauge showing that the extinguisher is fully charged with the needle in the green zone?
• Is the pin and tamper seal intact?
• Is the extinguisher in good condition and showing no signs of physical damage, corrosion, or leakage?
• Have all dry powder extinguishers been gently rocked top to bottom to make sure the powder is not packing?

To learn more about Fire Extinguishers visit our Portable Fire Extinguishers Online Training web page.