Fire Extinguishers Have Their Limits

Portable extinguishers are not designed to fight large or spreading fires. Even against small fires, they are useful only under certain conditions:

• The operator must know how to use the extinguisher.
• The extinguisher must be within easy reach, in working order, and fully charged.
• The operator must have a clear escape route that will not be blocked by fire.
• The extinguisher must match the type of fire being fought. (Extinguishers containing water are unsuitable for use on grease or electrical fires.)
• The extinguisher must be large enough to put out the fire. Many portable extinguishers discharge completely in as few as eight to ten seconds.

Always be sure the fire department inspects the fire site, even if you think the fire is extinguished!