How To Put Out a Fire

Fires can be incredibly destructive and dangerous. So it’s important to know how to put one out quickly and safely in the event of an emergency. There are a few different methods for extinguishing a fire, depending on the type of fire and the resources available. Understanding the basic way to put out a fire can help you to stay calm and make quick decisions in the event of a fire. We cover how to put out a fire, including the use of fire extinguishers and water. We also explain when you need to call for professional help.

All You Need To Put Out a Fire Is Water, Right?

Firefighters put out fires with water, so that’s all you need, right? While this might seem safe, using water on a fire can actually be quite dangerous. The reason that firefighters use it is that they have huge supplies of water and enough pressure to effectively put out many different types of fires.

On the home scale, using water on some fires can actually make it worse. The water will make the fuel splash, spreading the flames and increasing the risk of injury and damage.

If you have ever tested hot oil with a drop of water, you know that it pops. Now imagine pouring a gallon of water on a pan of burning oil. The oil – and flames – are going to splash all around your kitchen. Instead of putting out the fire, you probably just set your countertops and cabinets ablaze.

Which Types of Fires Can You Put Out With Water?

Because of the risk of spreading the flames and injuring yourself, you should only put out Class A fires with water. Class A fires involve ordinary combustibles, such as wood, paper, cloth, rubber, and many plastics.

Water works to put out fires in two ways. First, the water removes heat, cooling the burning material below its ignition point. Second, it smothers the flames by creating a barrier between the oxygen in the air and the fuel.

Still, you should only use water if you know that it is safe and do not have a fire extinguisher available. Use more water than you think you need and wait until it is completely out before leaving the scene.

That said, using a fire extinguisher is much safer. Ideally, you should have a fire extinguisher on every floor of your home and a separate one in the kitchen. If you grill or do anything else involving open flames outside, you should have another fire extinguisher there as well.

Which Types of Fire Should You Not Use Use Water On?

You should not use water to put out most types of fires. The specific reasons vary depending on the type of fire:

1. Class B fires: These involve flammable liquids and gases, such as oil, gasoline, and propane. Water can cause these types of fires to spread and make the situation even more dangerous. Instead, you should use a fire extinguisher labeled for Class B fires, smother the fire with a dry chemical powder or foam, or use a fire blanket to suffocate the fire by cutting off the oxygen supply.
2. Class C fires: These involve electrical equipment, such as appliances, wiring, and circuit breakers. Water should not be used on Class C fires because it is an excellent conductor of electricity, which can cause electrical shock or other injuries. Instead, a Class C fire extinguisher containing a chemically neutralizing agent or a CO2 extinguisher that suffocates the fire can be used.
3. Class D fires: These involve combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, and potassium. Water should not be used on Class D fires, as it can cause the metal to react violently and create sparks or explosions. Instead, specialized dry powder fire extinguishers should be used specifically designed for these types of fires.
4. Class F fires: These involve cooking oils, such as vegetable oil and animal fats. Water should not be used on Class F fires as it will cause the oil to splash and spread the fire. Instead, using a specialized fire extinguisher or smothering the fire with a heavy lid is the recommended way to put out a class F fire.

It’s always important to be aware of the type of fire you are dealing with and to use the appropriate methods to extinguish it, Always call 911 in case of any doubt or if the fire is too large to be controlled.

How Do You Put Out a Fire?

There are several ways to put out a fire, depending on the type and size of the fire. When trying to put out a fire, it is important to stay calm and think about your safety first. If you are not confident in your ability to put out the fire or if it is too large, do not hesitate to call 911. Here are the three safest methods:

Use a Fire Extinguisher

This is the easiest and quickest way to put out a small fire. Fire extinguishers are typically labeled with information about the type of fire they can extinguish (e.g. A, B, C, or D), so make sure to use the correct type of extinguisher for the fire you are trying to put out. Most fire extinguishers are ABC, which will safely put out almost any normal house fire.

Smother the Fire

If you don’t have a fire extinguisher, the best alternative is to smother it. While anything that resists burning and block oxygen will work, here are the best options depending on the type of fire:

• Stove-top fires: Smother it with a heavy lid or a large amount of salt
• Open fires: Turn off the heat, then sprinkle the flames with baking soda and close the door
• Gasoline or oil fires: Use sand or dirt to smother the flames
• Electrical fires: Cover the flames with a fire blanket, then call 911
• Chemical fires: Call 911 immediately, then use a Class D extinguisher or fire blanket to safely evacuate the area

Call the Fire Department

Lastly, if the two methods outlined above don’t work, call 911 immediately. It may seem unnecessary, but seconds matter when it comes to fires. Back away from the flames and get outside as quickly and safely as possible. Then wait for the firefighters to show up.

Fast, Reliable Fire Damage Cleanup

Not sure what to do after a fire? Restoration Local offers fast, local restoration services. Our team of experts will quickly assess the damage and provide a free quote for restoring your property to its pre-loss condition. We understand the urgency of fire damage, and that’s why we work around the clock to ensure minimal disruption to your life. Don’t wait, call us now at 1-877-941-2788 for a free quote and let us restore your property fast.