Four-step method for using a fire extinguisher: 'Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep'

Fire extinguishers are the most effective tool for tackling small fires, but surveys show that more than 70% of residents don’t know how to use them correctly. Remember the four-character mnemonic “Lift, Pull, Aim, Squeeze”—it can come in handy in critical moments.

Step 1: Lift – Pick up the fire extinguisher
When you spot a fire, quickly grab the fire extinguisher and bring it to about 2–3 meters from the fire. Stand upwind (opposite the direction the flames and smoke are blowing) to avoid getting burned by the fire or inhaling smoke.

Step 2: Pull – Remove the safety pin
There’s a safety pin on the handle of the extinguisher, usually secured with a seal. Hold the handle with one hand and pull out the pin with the other to make the extinguisher ready to spray. Note: don’t hold the handle while trying to pull the pin—it won’t come out.

Step 3: Aim – Hold the nozzle at the front
Hold the handle tightly with one hand and grab the front of the nozzle with the other. Aim the nozzle at the base of the flames, not the top. Many people spray directly at the flames, but this just blows the extinguishing agent away and reduces its effectiveness.

Step 4: Squeeze – Press the handle and sweep
Press the handle firmly and sweep the spray side to side, moving forward gradually until the fire is completely out. Don’t leave immediately after putting out the fire—watch it for a few minutes to prevent it from reigniting.

Common mistakes when using fire extinguishers:
Electrical fire: Cut off the power first to avoid electric shock. If you can’t cut the power, use a dry powder or CO2 extinguisher, not water.
Oil fire: Don’t use a fire extinguisher (it could splash oil and make the fire worse). Cover the pot with a lid or pour chopped vegetables in to cool it down. You can also use a fire blanket.
Fire too big: If the flames are taller than a person or there’s thick smoke everywhere, don’t try to fight it yourself. Evacuate immediately and call 119.

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