Did you know that there’s been 355,400 home fires between 2012 and 2016? These fires caused 11,670   injuries, 2,560 deaths, and $6.5 billion in damages. Only 75% of homes own a fire extinguisher, that when used correctly, could make the difference between a small flare-up or extensive damage and injuries.

Now, let’s look at 4 important reasons for having a fire extinguisher in the home.

1. Cooking Fires are a Large Cause of Injuries
About 65% of home fires were from home cooking. More than half of cooking fire injuries happened when people tried to fight the fire themselves.

The type of fire extinguisher for the kitchen are either a combined A-B-C Class, or a specific one like K Class for grease and oil fires. These are best stored on a wall or under the sink for easy and quick access. Don’t mount it next to the stove, you don’t want to reach through the flames to grab it.

2. The Garage is Where the Majority of Fires Start
The garage can hold some pretty flammable material – paint, gasoline, solvents and other hazardous items. For many homes the garage is where the washer and dryer are located as well. Over 93% of home fires started in the garage and accountsfor an average of 30 deaths a year and are the most destructive.

The best type of extinguisher to keep in the garage is again a combination A-B-C class. Get the largest size you can handle easily to help extinguish larger fires or in a bigger space. Remember to store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources.

3. You need Clear Escape Routes
You and your family should have an escape route plan in place for any time there’s a fire.  It’s best to have several alternate routes in case of fire obstruction.

Next, you should have one extinguisher on each floor of your home to help clear your escape path. Remember to keep the extinguisher free of clutter, you don’t want to be moving stuff in order to reach it. Don’t try and fight large spreading fires – a good rule of thumb is if the fire is taller than you, it’s best to get out another way.

4. Sources of Heat are High Risk Areas
What do I mean by “sources of heat”? Here’s a few:
⦁ Fireplace
⦁ Wood or Pellet stove
⦁ Laundry room (dryer)
⦁ Electrical Panels
⦁ Furnace

The combination of electrical parts and heat is a sure opportunity of a fire happening. Again, do not store them right next to the heat source, at least 30 feet away is a good gauge for safety.

Conclusion
Everyone should learn how to use a fire extinguisher properly and efficiently, otherwise you defeat the purpose of owning one.

Remember though, these fire extinguishers work best on contained fires – a cooking pot, a wastebasket, an appliance, and such. Fires spread quickly, so if a fire is spreading quickly in your home, it’s best to get out quickly and wait for the fire department.

For more information on fire extinguishers or fire safety contact us – All Florida Fire Equipment.

About the Author:
Tracy Stine is a freelance writer, an online sign language tutor, and a disability advocate.

For more information on fire extinguishers or fire safety contact – All Florida Fire Equipment.