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Countries around the world are holding national
crusades to promote fire safety. In North America, both Canada and
the United States have annual campaigns each October to educate
the public about fire prevention. Campaign topics have covered the
importance of smoke detectors, fire extinguishers and family escape
plans.
Safety training continues to be an ongoing challenge
when it comes to getting the message out to the general public
about the dangers of house fires and preventing job site injuries.
Lack of awareness, carelessness and inadequate or missing fire
equipment are three reasons why fire fatalities continue to be
a leading cause of accidental death in this country.
It is a fact that a small fire can be put out
by a fire extinguisher. The local fire department can provide
free instruction on how to properly operate an extinguisher and
when not to use one. The acronym PASS is a quick reference tool.
To operate most models; Pull the Pin, Aim at the bottom of the
fire, Squeeze the lever, and Sweep side to side.
Extinguishers only have enough pressure inside
to operate for only a fraction of a minute. It is an important
safety tip to never try to extinguish flames that are getting
out of control. The extinguisher will not work long enough to
handle a large, growing fire. You should get out of the house
as fast as possible, and let the fire department put out the blaze.
While it is a good idea to carry an auto fire extinguisher, remember
that a car fire can also spread rapidly due to gas and oil.
Fire can happen at anytime, anywhere. It can start
suddenly at home, the office, on your boat or in your car. Portable
fire extinguishers, when properly used, can help prevent tragic
situations. They are affordable, lightweight and easy to operate.
Check out what is available at your local retailer, or shop online
for the best selection.
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