University of Nebraska safety specialist Betsy Howe oversees Technology Park tenants practice extinguishing a small fire on September 25.
Tips from Univerity of Nebraska Lincoln Enviornmental health and safety
Use of extinguishers
Any person who is designated or intends to use a fire extinguisher must be trained in its use. Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) at the University of Nebraska offers fire extinguisher training upon request. EHS will teach class participants how to implement the PASS method.
Pull the Pin at the top of the extinguisher to unlock the extinguisher and allow it to discharge its contents when the trigger is pulled.
Aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire, not the flames.
Squeeze the lever to release the extinguishing agent. If the lever is released, the discharge will stop.
Sweep from side to side. Using a sweeping motion, move the fire extinguisher back and forth until the fire is completely out. Operate the extinguisher from a safe distance, several feet away, and then move toward the fire once it starts to diminish.
Use an extinguisher only after warning other building occupants of the fire by activating the alarm. Do not attempt to put out a fire that is unconfined or spreading, and do not allow the fire to come between you and the exit.
Fire prevention
- Keep hallways, corridors and exit areas clear.
- Properly store combustible items. Do not accumulate unnecessary cardboard boxes, chemicals and paper products.
- Keep electrical equipment, cords, and plugs in good condition. Replace electrical cords or plugs that are in poor condition (i.e., frayed, cracked insulation, loose prongs, etc.).
- Do not overload electrical outlets.
- Keep fire extinguishers charged, stored in their designated location and ensure annual inspection.
- Turn off the electrical appliances at the end of the day.
- Immediately report a suspected natural gas leak.
- Refrain from unnecessary open flames (i.e. candles, incense burner, etc.).
Contact UNL Environmental Health and Safety at 402-472-4925 to learn more about fire safety. You can also visit their Web site at http://ehs.unl.edu.