Facts

Many fires are small at origin and can be extinguished by the use of proper portable fire extinguishers. Fire extinguishers represent an important segment of any overall fire protection program. However, their successful functioning depends upon the following conditions having been met:
(1) The fire extinguisher is in working order and properly located.
(2) The fire extinguisher is of the proper type for a fire that can occur.
(3) The fire is discovered while still small enough for the fire extinguisher to be effective.
(4) The fire is discovered by a person ready, willing, and able to use the fire extinguisher.

How to Use an Extinguisher

P.A.S.S.

Pull the Pin at the top of the extinguisher. The pin releases a locking mechanism and will allow you to discharge the extinguisher.

Aim at the base of the fire, not the flames. This is important - in order to put out the fire, you must extinguish the fuel.

Squeeze the lever slowly. This will release the extinguishing agent in the extinguisher. If the handle is released, the discharge will stop.

Sweep from side to side. Using a sweeping motion, move the fire extinguisher back and forth until the fire is completely out. Operate the extinguisher from a safe distance, several feet away, and then move towards the fire once it starts to diminish. Be sure to read the instructions on your fire extinguisher - different fire extinguishers recommend operating them from different distances. Remember: Aim at the base of the fire, not at the flames!!!!
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 Frequently ask questions

 
Q. What does “maintenance” of portable fire extinguishers involve?
A. Maintenance is a thorough examination of the fire extinguisher. It is intended to give maximum assurance that a portable fire extinguisher will operate effectively and safely. It includes a detailed examination, including any necessary repair or replacement. Maintenance will normally reveal if hydrostatic testing or internal maintenance is required. Maintenance and recharging are considered "servicing". Recharging is the replacement of the extinguishing agent. It may also include the replacement of the pressurizing gas (expellent gas) for certain types of fire extinguishers. A FDNY Certificate of Fitness is required to service (maintain and/or recharge) a portable fire extinguisher.

Q. I have a number of portable fire extinguishers. Can I inspect them myself?
A. Yes and no. You can perform the monthly “quick-check” inspections yourself, but a portable fire extinguisher servicing company (certified by the FDNY) must come in and perform any maintenance, recharging, and/or testing that is required by 3RCNY §15-02 and NFPA 10.

Q. Is a portable fire extinguisher required to be installed in an area that contains stationary oil-burning equipment?

A. Yes.  Building owners seeking to replace sand pails with a portable fire extinguisher may wish to consider installing a dry chemical extinguisher or a carbon dioxide extinguisher.

The new Fire Code no longer accepts sand pails as an approved portable fire extinguishing medium, and effective July 1, 2008, sand pails must be replaced with a portable fire extinguisher of an appropriate size and type.  The requirements for portable fire extinguishers in areas containing fuel oil-fired equipment will be the subject of a forthcoming rulemaking proceeding.

Q. How high off the floor does a potable fire extinguisher have to be mounted?

A.  Extinguishers are required to be mounted so that the top of the extinguisher is not more than 5 feet off the floor for extinguishers weighing 40 pounds or less, and not more than 3½ feet off the floor for extinguishers weighing more than 40 pounds, but in no case less than 4 inches off the floor.

Regulations