FIRE EXTINGUISHER TRAINING

Online Fire Extinguisher training providing the knowledge needed to safely and effectively use fire extinguishers in the workplace.

Fire extinguishers are simple to use, however its important staff understand which fire extinguisher to use. They also need to know when its appropriate to try to tackle a fire and when evacuation is the best course of action.

Any staff who may be called on to use fire extinguishers in your workplace should received appropriate training. An Echo3 Fire Extinguish certificate is emailed on successful completion.

CERTIFICATE

At the end of the Fire Extinguisher course is a 15 question, multiple-choice quiz aimed at reinforcing and testing individual learning.

Where the learner demonstrates their understanding of course content by achieving a minimum score of 80%, a completion certificate is issued by email.

If the score is less than 80%, learners are offered the opportunity to revisit any part of the course and retake the quiz until successful.

The verifiable, CPD-Accredited certificate is then emailed to your account for retention within your training records.

A posted certificate is available for £9.

The Fire Extinguisher certificate is valid for 3 years.

APPROPRIATE FOR

This Fire Extinguisher training provides the knowledge needed to tackle small fires at work. If you have the requirement to tackle small fires at work then appropriate training is required.

Roles that have this duty will usually be determined during a risk assessment. Often those working as a Fire Warden or Fire Marshal will benefit from this knowledge. Or it may be part of general Fire Safety responsibilities in workplaces where the fire risk is elevated.

LEARNING OUTCOMES

Upon completion of this course, you will:

Understand the fire triangle and its elements.
Recognise the stages of a fire for effective response.
Identify the five classes of fires and select appropriate extinguishers.
Learn about the various types of fire extinguishers and their applications.
Know the step-by-step process of using a fire extinguisher.
Comprehend the significance of routine inspection and maintenance.

HOW TO USE EXTINGUISHERS

Proper usage techniques are essential for effective firefighting.

Pull Pin: Remove the safety pin from the extinguisher. This initial step ensures that the extinguisher is ready for use when needed.
Aim: Point the nozzle or hose at the base of the fire, not the flames. This targeted approach increases the chances of extinguishing the fire effectively.
Squeeze: Firmly squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent. Applying steady pressure ensures a controlled and continuous discharge of the agent.
Sweep: Move the nozzle from side to side to cover the fire until it’s extinguished. This sweeping motion helps distribute the extinguishing agent evenly over the fire, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
Evacuate: If the fire persists or grows, evacuate immediately and alert others. Knowing when to retreat is essential for personal safety.

DO FIRE BLANKETS WORK?

Fire blankets are crucial tools in many fire safely kits. Whenever fire blankets are present it is essential to understand how to use them effectively. Made from flame retardant material they work by depriving the fire of oxygen and extinguishing the fire. It’s important to remember that fire blankets are designed for small fires only.

Keep in mind trying to tackle larger fires with a blanket can be both dangerous and ineffective. For larger fires it is much better to immediately raise the alarm and evacuate the building.

Fire Blankets are often used for kitchen fires, where oil and grease can fuel flames rapidly. They can also be used for smothering small fires involving electrical equipment or appliances.

Using a fire blanket is easy.

When confrontment with a small fire, remember the acronym PASS. Pull, aim, Squeezer Sweep.

First pull the fire blanket out of its packaging. Then, aim it at the base of the flames, covering them completely. Next, gently squeeze the blanket to release any trapped air, ensuring optimal smothering. Finally sweep the blanket across the flames extinguishing them entirely.

Finally, remember to regularly inspect you fire blankets for signs of damage or wear and replace it as needed to ensure its reliability in an emergency. Ensure a fire blanket is readily accessible to protect your home or business.

TYPES OF FIRE EXTINGUISHER

Fire extinguishers have red metal bodies with a coloured band to identify their type. There are five types of extinguishers commonly in use for the different fire classes.

Carbon dioxide

These extinguishers have a black band and a black funnel shaped hose. Use for electrical, class B and C fires. Don’t use in small rooms.

Water

Water extinguishers have a solid red body. Use on class A fires only.

Dry powder

Dry Powder extinguishers have a blue band. Use for all fires except class F.

Foam

Foam extinguishers have a cream band. Use on class A and B fires.

Wet Chemical

These extinguishers have a yellow band. Use on class A and F fires.

Using some extinguisher types on the wrong fire class may spread the fire.

CLASSIFICATION OF FIRES

Fires are grouped into ‘classes’ based on the fuel they burn. The different classes are called Class A, B, C, D, F and Electrical.

Knowing the class means the correct fire extinguisher can be used.

Class A: Class A fires burn flammable solids such as paper, wood, coal, plastic, furniture, textiles.

Class B: Class B fires burn flammable liquids such as paint, petrol, oil, diesel.

Class C: Class C fires burn gasses such as natural gas, hydrogen, propane and butane.

Class D: Class D fires burn metals such as potassium, aluminium, and magnesium.

Class F: Class F fires are fires that involve cooking oils and fats. Fires of this class can occur in food premises.

Electrical Fires: This type of fire does not have its own class because fires involving electrical equipment can fall into any of the other classes.

RELATED COURSES?

FIRE AWARENESS – For staff to provide an understanding of how to reduce the chance of fires and mitigate their impact

FIRE MARSHAL OR FIRE WARDEN – How to safely undertake the duties of a fire marshal or fire warden.

PAT TESTING – Know how to maintain electrical appliances safely to minimise the chance of fires and electric shock. For everyone wishing to undertake PAT Tests.

If you have learners who require multiple courses, you have the option to order CREDIT.