Fire Suppression Techniques: What You Need to Know

Fire Suppression Techniques: What You Need to Know When it comes to fire emergencies, the brave men and women of the Marysville Volunteer Fire Department are always ready to respond. Their expertise and dedication to protecting the community are evident in the image above, where they are seen using various fire suppression techniques to combat a burning building. In this blog post, we will explore some of the essential fire suppression techniques that every homeowner should know. 1. Fire Extinguishers: The first line of defense against small fires is a fire extinguisher. It is crucial to have a working fire extinguisher in your home and to know how to use it properly. Remember the acronym PASS: Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, and Sweep from side to side. Regularly check the pressure gauge on your fire extinguisher to ensure it is ready for use. 2. Fire Hoses: Fire hoses are a powerful tool used by firefighters to deliver a large volume of water to extinguish fires. If you find yourself in a situation where a fire hose is available, remember to aim the stream of water at the base of the fire, where the fuel source is located. This will help to smother the flames and prevent them from spreading. 3. Fire Blankets: Fire blankets are specially designed to smother small fires and can be used to extinguish flames on a person or to cover a small fire source. In case of a clothing fire, remember to stop, drop, and roll to smother the flames, and then use a fire blanket to further extinguish any remaining fire. 4. Sprinkler Systems: Residential sprinkler systems are an effective fire suppression tool that can help control or extinguish fires in the early stages. These systems are designed to activate when the temperature reaches a certain threshold, releasing water to suppress the fire until the fire department arrives. Regular maintenance and testing of sprinkler systems are essential to ensure their proper functioning. 5. Fire Safety Education: Prevention is always better than suppression. Educating yourself and your family about fire safety is crucial in reducing the risk of fire emergencies. Teach your family about fire hazards, escape routes, and the importance of smoke alarms. Conduct regular fire drills to practice evacuation procedures and ensure everyone knows what to do in case of a fire. Remember, in the event of a fire emergency, always prioritize your safety and the safety of your loved ones. If a fire becomes too large or uncontrollable, evacuate the premises immediately and call 911. The Marysville Volunteer Fire Department is always ready to respond and protect the community, but it is essential for homeowners to be prepared and knowledgeable about fire suppression techniques. Stay safe, be proactive, and together, we can prevent and combat fires in our community.