Choosing the Right Fire Extinguisher

Moving into our house last year, my wife and I had to make sure we had the bare essentials. These usually involve things like lawn equipment, cleaning supplies, home repair tools and the like. However, one thing that we didn't consider at first was a fire extinguisher. While as many as 75 percent of homes have a fire extinguisher of some kind, there are many out there that don't know their classifications, and at worst, how to use the extinguisher itself.

For the uninitiated (I am including myself in this category), This Old House has put together a list of tips and tools on how to choose and use fire extinguishers. It covers the three types of fire extinguishers (A for flammable items such as wood or cardboard, B for flammable liquids and C for electricity) as well as other useful pieces of information for fire safety newbies like myself. I think the most interesting portion of the article would have to be the section that recommends the size of fire extinguisher that is appropriate for different places. If I'm being honest here, I'd admit that I didn't know fire extinguishers came in as many sizes as This Old House lists. The more you know, right?

To read more about fire extinguishers, I'd definitely recommend checking out This Old House. How many of you have fire extinguishers in your home? Do you know how to use them?

Comments

[Amanda]

Very ironic this blog was just posted, as I was thinking that I should probably have a fire extinguisher in my house. I know when I was a kid, we have a small one in our kitchen, but since becoming an adult the thought never crossed my mind... until about two weeks ago when thinking about all things related to toddler safety. Great tips - thanks!

[Fiona]

Great post. But, as this is the world wide web, don't forget that the fire classes and types vary from country to country.

Don't wait around thinking about it, just go out and buy one.