How to use a dry powder fire extinguisher (used for Classes A, B, C and electrical fires)
Stand at least 5-7 metres from the fire.
Break the tamperproof seal and pull the pin.
Hold the operating lever in one hand and with the other, remove the discharge hose nozzle from its storage point. Hold the discharge hose 5cm from the nozzle.
While holding the fire extinguisher, ensure it remains in the upright position.
Face the fire extinguisher away from the fire, and gently squeeze the handle for a short sharp burst – this is to ensure it works.
How to use a dry powder fire extinguisher
Aim the discharge hose at the base (back) of the fire, gently squeeze the lever and then in a slow, sweeping motion begin to sweep the nozzle from back to front over the fire, and then slowly move across the fire.
Discharge the extinguisher fully to ensure the fire has been extinguished.
Look for signs of reignition – if there are signs, leave the area by your nearest exit (or suitable evacuation path) and advise the fire and rescue service on their arrival.
For uncontained liquid fires:
Aim the discharge hose over the fire and gently squeeze the lever; using a slow sweeping motion move the discharge nozzle along the fire. The powder will give a fast knock down of the flame but reignition could occur once the powder has settled so then use a foam extinguisher over the spill to prevent the reignition.
Dry powder extinguishers are generally not recommended for indoor use in some environments without first completing a Health and Safety risk assessment due to the powder aggravating some respiratory illnesses.
Tips
Never use a fire extinguisher to extinguish flames from a fire involving escaping gases.
Only tackle a fire in its very early stages.
Do not move forward unless it is safe to do so, but you must remain 1 metre from the fire.
Do not use more than one fire extinguisher to tackle a fire.