CLEVELAND — Each and every day, fire extinguishers save lives and protect property and are a critical component of a balanced fire protection plan - both at home and at work. However, it is not only important to own a fire extinguisher. It is equally as critical to know how to operate a portable fire extinguisher properly.

“This Fire Prevention Week is the perfect time to go out and purchase a fire extinguisher if you currently don’t have one on every level of your home,” says Pat Jaugstetter, president of the Fire Equipment Manufacturers’ Association. “And at work, know where they are located and ask the person in charge of safety to conduct a fire extinguisher training event in the workplace.”

Many local fire departments will visit the workplace and conduct a fire extinguisher demonstration so that employees can learn firsthand how to operate a portable fire extinguisher. The moment when a fire strikes is not the time to learn how to use a portable fire extinguisher.

“We recommend using a fire extinguisher only after the fire department has been called and everyone is safe. Only then do we advocate using a fire extinguisher as your first defense against a fire that is small and contained,” says Jaugstetter.

The Fire Equipment Manufacturers’ Association (FEMA, The Life Safety Group) recently developed a “Life Safety Tool Kit,” which contains a number of educational materials designed to teach people how to properly operate a portable fire extinguisher. Consumers also are encouraged to visit http://www.fireextinguisher.com - an educational public service web site developed by Brooks Equipment Co. FEMA’s “Life Safety Tool Kit” also includes materials on how to design a balanced fire protection plan for any commercial building or occupancy.

Portable fire extinguishers do require annual maintenance and should be checked regularly to determine that it is fully charged and has not been damaged in any way. At home, be sure to check the pressure gauge and make sure there are no visible signs of damage, such as leaking, cracks, or corrosion. At work, make sure fire extinguishers have updated inspection tags or contact a local fire extinguisher service company immediately.

Utilizing a portable fire extinguisher is as simple as the word “PASS” - pull, aim, squeeze, and sweep:

– 1) Pull the pin.

– 2) Aim at the base of the fire standing from a recommended 8-foot distance.

– 3) Squeeze the trigger.

– 4) Sweep the extinguisher back and forth until the fire has been extinguished.

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To learn more about portable fire extinguishers and how to use one, visit http://www.fireextinguisher.com or visit http://www.femalifesafety.org for educational materials on fire extinguishers and many more fire protection topics.

FEMA, The Life Safety Group is an international, non-profit trade association representing the leading manufacturers of fire equipment. Celebrating its 60-year anniversary, the association is dedicated to saving lives and protecting property through balanced fire protection.