Even with proper training, using a fire extinguisher during an emergency can be challenging and overwhelming. This blog highlights common mistakes made in the UK and offers guidance on how to avoid them to ensure safety and compliance.
1. Selecting the Wrong Fire Extinguisher
Using the incorrect extinguisher for a specific fire type is a common mistake. For instance, applying a water-based extinguisher to an electrical fire can cause electrocution. Alwaysmatch the extinguisher to the fire classification, and ensure that extinguishers have the correct labelling as per BS EN3.
2. Standing Too Close or Too Far from the Fire
Maintaining an optimal distance (usually around 2-3 metres) is essential. Standing too close exposes you to heat, while standing too far can make it difficult to control the fire. Follow the recommended distance guidelines indicated on the extinguisher.
3. Ignoring UK Legal Requirements for Fire Extinguisher Training
Ensure that all employees receive adequate fire safety training and that it is refreshed regularly. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 mandates that the responsible person ensures all individuals know how to use fire extinguishers.
Golden Rule for Fire Extinguisher Use:
“Only use one. If it does not extinguish the fire – evacuate!”
This emphasises that personal safety comes first, and if the fire grows, it’s crucial to leave the premises and let the fire services handle it.
Conclusion
By understanding and avoiding these common mistakes, you can significantly improve your chances of successfully handling a small fire in a compliant and safe manner. Our next blog will cover fire safety training and how to ensure everyone in your home or workplace is prepared for emergencies.
Contact Us
If you need more assistance with fire extinguisher use, please do not hesitate to contact Assured Fire Safety Consultancy Ltd.
Common Mistakes When Using a Fire Extinguisher
Even with proper training, using a fire extinguisher during an emergency can be challenging and overwhelming. This blog highlights common mistakes made in the UK and offers guidance on how to avoid them to ensure safety and compliance.
1. Selecting the Wrong Fire Extinguisher
Using the incorrect extinguisher for a specific fire type is a common mistake. For instance, applying a water-based extinguisher to an electrical fire can cause electrocution. Always match the extinguisher to the fire classification, and ensure that extinguishers have the correct labelling as per BS EN3.
2. Standing Too Close or Too Far from the Fire
Maintaining an optimal distance (usually around 2-3 metres) is essential. Standing too close exposes you to heat, while standing too far can make it difficult to control the fire. Follow the recommended distance guidelines indicated on the extinguisher.
3. Ignoring UK Legal Requirements for Fire Extinguisher Training
Ensure that all employees receive adequate fire safety training and that it is refreshed regularly. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 mandates that the responsible person ensures all individuals know how to use fire extinguishers.
Golden Rule for Fire Extinguisher Use:
“Only use one. If it does not extinguish the fire – evacuate!”
This emphasises that personal safety comes first, and if the fire grows, it’s crucial to leave the premises and let the fire services handle it.
Conclusion
By understanding and avoiding these common mistakes, you can significantly improve your chances of successfully handling a small fire in a compliant and safe manner. Our next blog will cover fire safety training and how to ensure everyone in your home or workplace is prepared for emergencies.
Contact Us
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