How to Use

Where to Use!

Amerex manufactures a wide variety of hand portable and wheeled fire extinguishers, both “compliance” (code required) and “specialty” types. Specialty type extinguishers are intended for use on particular types of hazards, so careful attention should be made to locating them in close proximity to the specific hazard they are meant to protect. It is natural for a person to use the extinguisher located nearest to a fire.

The most current issue of NFPA-10 should be consulted for minimum recommended fire extinguisher types, placement and travel distances. Your local Amerex Fire Equipment Distributor is professionally qualified and equipped to help you evaluate and implement these recommendations. Two new classifications have been added recently – Class A:C (Amerex Water Mist fire extinguishers) and Class A:K (Amerex Wet Chemical extinguishers). All picture symbols are detailed below and should be reviewed with all who might be expected to use a fire extinguisher. Everyone should be familiar with these picture symbols which identify the types of fires on which they may be used.

The International sign symbol diagonal red slash indicates a potential danger if the extinguisher is used on that particular type of fire. Absence of a type symbol means only that the extinguisher is not recommended as particularly effective for that classification of fire.

Types of Fires

  • Class A
    Class A Ordinary Combustibles Wood, paper, cloth, trash and other ordinary materials.
  • Class B
    Class B Flammable Liquids & Gases Gasoline, oils, paint lacquer and tar.
  • Class C
    Class C Electrical Equipment
  • Class D
    Class D Combustible Metals/Metal Alloys (No picture symbol)
  • Class K
    Class K Cooking Appliances Involving Combustible Cooking Media Vegetable or animal oils and fats

Types of Extinguishers

  • Class A
    Class A
  • Class A:B
    Class A:B
  • Class A:B:C
    Class A:B:C
  • Class A:C
    Class A:C
  • Class B:C
    Class B:C
  • Class D
    Class D
  • Class A:K
    Class A:K

How to Use an Extinguisher

  1. Step 1 Diagram
    1. Hold Upright and Pull Ring (Safety) Pin
  2. Step 2 Diagram
    2. Start Back 8 – 10 Feet. Aim at Base of Fire.
  3. Step 3 Diagram
    3. Squeeze Lever. Sweep Side-to-Side