With the Holidays coming, I thought it was important learn a little more about Fire Extinguishers. According to the NFPA, each year fire departments respond to an average of 210 structure fires caused by Christmas trees. With proper training and education, fire extinguishers can save lives and property.

Did you know there are five primary types of fire extinguishers, each designed to put out different kinds of fires. You should keep at least one on each level of your house. Make sure you keep fire extinguishers handy where fires are more likely to start, like in the kitchen and garage. Many people might not know what type of fire extinguisher to purchase or even how or when to use fire extinguishers. You can contact the fire department for more information on fire extinguisher training or with questions they might have.

Choosing Fire Extinguishers:

For use with ordinary materials like cloth, wood and paper. Often found in homes and businesses

For use with combustible and flammable liquids like grease, gasoline, oil and oil-based paints. Often found in homes and businesses

For use with electrical equipment like appliances, tools, or other equipment that is plugged in. Often found in homes and businesses

For use with flammable metals. Often found in factories

For use with vegetable oils, animal oils and fats in cooking appliances. Often found in commercial kitchens (restaurants, cafeterias, catering businesses)

There are also multipurpose fire extinguishers that might be labeled "B-C" or "A-B-C." Most home improvement stores carry multipurpose fire extinguishers that cover Class A through Class C.

When operating a fire extinguisher, remember the word PASS:

• Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism.
• Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
• Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side

For more information on Fire Extinguishers visit Fema.gov . And as always, if you have any questions please feel free to give our office a call at 978-352-8000 or email info [at] georgetowninsurance [dot] com

Have a Safe and Happy Holiday Season!!!

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