Fire Extinguisher Procedures‎

Training is required for the use of fire extinguishers within the health care setting and this occurs at mandatory training sessions. Staff are advised to tackle fires only if they feel safe and happy to do so; containment, that is, closing a door on the fire, or evacuation are otherwise strongly advised.

Current European legislation means that the colour of fire extinguishers within health care settings is changing to reduce confusion and bring the UK in line with the rest of Europe. This is a gradual change as equipment is replaced following annual testing.

The fire extinguishers and equipment found commonly within health care settings are given in Table 4.2. The key issues involved with responding in the event of a fire are:

• knowing the procedure for your working environment
• how to contact the emergency services
• who to call in an emergency

Type and colour	Type of fire	How it works	How to use
Foam Red with cream panel (New), cream (Old)	Wood, paper, linen, fabric, furnishing, liquid, oils, paints, solvents NOT ELECTRICAL FIRES	Cools Forms a film on liquid surface	Direct foam at base of fire, working across area. If fire vertical aim at top and work down. If liquid aim at outer edge and work around: do not aim directly onto liquid – this causes spread
Carbon dioxide Red with a black panel (New), black (Old)	Live electrical equipment	Displaces oxygen required to maintain combustion	Switch off at mains if safe to do so. Aim carbon dioxide in and around vents of electrical equipment
Fire blanket	Small fire, e.g. clothing, cooking, pans, oils or liquids	Smothers the fire thus reducing oxygen required for combustion	Place blanket over fire, protecting face and hands. Turn off energy source if safe to do so.

• when to evacuate and how to evacuate everyone safely from the area

• where exit and avoidance areas are situated

• what practical fire-fighting steps you can perform safely.

If we ensure that we understand all of the above we can act efficiently and effectively in maintaining the safety of clients, visitors, staff and ourselves.