June is National Safety Month and the WSMR Fire Department has some tips on how to best put out fires at home.

National Safety Month: Tips for putting out fires at home

June is National Safety Month and the WSMR Fire Department has some tips on how to best put out fires at home.

Although you may have seen several advertisements for fire blankets WSMR Fire Inspector Chris Stafford said fire blankets do not meet U.S. Safety Standards and many of them are made with fiberglass, which could cause harm if not properly used.

“We don’t recommend any products that do not meet U.S. Safety Standards,” Stafford said.

Instead, if it is safe to do so, he said you can put a lid on a pot or pan or baking soda on the fire.

“Sometimes it is not safe to use a lid, it may be too hot,” Stafford said.

Your best option is to use an ABC Fire Extinguisher, which can be used on ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, and electrical fires.

“ABC extinguishers cover ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, and electrical fires such as a toaster on fire,” he said. “You do not have to unplug the toaster if you use an ABC extinguisher.”

Stafford said the WSMR Fire Department offers classes on how to use a fire extinguisher for the WSMR population. If you can’t make it to a class, you can do a search on your computer for videos on how to use one or simply read the instructions on the extinguisher.

“The side of the fire extinguisher always has instructions,” Stafford said.

He said a good reminder when using a fire extinguisher is to remember the acronym P-A-S-S.

“Pull - pull the pin out of the extinguisher, Aim – aim your nozzle at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle and Sweep at the base of the fire.”

Fire Extinguishers can be purchased at most hardware stores.

Stafford said that when buying a fire extinguisher, it is important to make sure the manufacturer date is the same year as the purchase year. He said fire extinguishers need to be service tested after six years. You can take it to certified technician for that.

This summer many young adults will be home alone and likely making meals for themselves. Stafford said it is best for children not to cook when there are no adults to supervise.

He said parents should make sure their children know the emergency numbers to call especially at WSMR. Calling 911 will more than likely delay the arrival of emergency services so it is best to call (575) 678-1234 which takes you directly to the WSMR Emergency Dispatch.

Stafford also recommends using the First Alert Escape Ladders for two-story homes. They are tested by the American Society of Testing and Materials.

By Miriam Rodriguez

WSMR Public Affairs