USI logo
University of Southern Indiana
Directories
Contact
USI Home
google search

    

Contractor Safety Environmental Health Emergency Procedures Fire Safety ◊USI Fire Prevention   Plan ◊USI Emergency   Action Plan ◊Fire Extinguisher Use ◊Residence Hall Fire   Evacuation Drills ◊Fire Evacuation Plans ◊Red Tag Permit ◊Hot Work Permit ◊Occupants with   Disabilities ◊List of Common Fire   Hazards General Safety Hazardous Materials Industrial Hygiene Lab Safety & Research Occupational Safety Training Insurance & Claims Management Motor Vehicle Operators Worker's Compensation International Travel Insurance Request Form

This page under construction .
Any policies listed here may not have been approved.

FIRE EXTINGUISHER USE

Elements of Fire
Before extinguishing a fire, it is important to understand the elements that make up a fire. In order for fire to occur, four elements must be present: oxygen, fuel, heat and a chemical chain reaction. This is represented by the Fire Tetrahedron. When any of the four elements are removed, the fire will go out. Fire extinguishers function by removing one of the four components of the Fire Tetrahedron.

Types of Fires
Fire extinguishers are rated based upon the types of fires they are designed to put out. These ratings are identified on the label of the fire extinguisher. Care should be taken to ensure the extinguisher chosen to put out a fire is proper for the type of fire. Listed below are the four main types of ratings.

  • Class A: Ordinary combustible materials, wood, paper, plastics and clothing
  • Class B: Flammable liquids and gases
  • Class C: Energized electrical equipment
  • Class D: Combustible metals
Chart: Types of fires and recommended fire extinguishers

Types of Fire Extinguishers
The University uses the following types of fire extinguishers:

  • Water (Class A)
  • Carbon dioxide (Class BC)
  • Multipurpose dry chemical (Class ABC)
  • Dry powder (Class D)

PASS
Follow the PASS procedure when operating any fire extinguisher:
P: Pull the pin.
A: Aim at the base of the fire.
S: Squeeze the handle or lever.
S: Sweep from side to side.

Rules for Extinguisher Usage

  • Be trained in extinguisher use
  • Use on small fires that are not spreading;
  • Know what type of fuel is burning;
  • Before extinguishing the fire, position yourself with the exit at your back;
  • Do not attempt to extinguish the fire if you are in jeopardy or feel uncomfortable doing so.

Maintenance
Missing or discharged fire extinguishers should be reported immediately to Emergency Minor Maintenance at 812 464-1700.




Updated  4/14/2008 11:20:56 AM

Contact the webmaster


Academics | Calendar | Athletics | Visitors | Events and News | Administration

8600 University Boulevard - Evansville, IN 47712-3596 - 812/464-8600

Copyright © 2008 University of Southern Indiana. All rights reserved.

EMBOSSED USI LOGO