What to Do If Fire Breaks Out Around You – And Which Fire Extinguisher to Use


A fire can ignite and spread within seconds. Whether you're at home, at work, in your car, or in a public place, knowing exactly what to do — and having the right kind of fire extinguisher — can save lives and property. This guide will be clear and provide a step by step approach.

Immediate Actions When Fire Breaks Out Around You

Remain composed while taking prompt action. Panic can squander precious seconds. 

Notify all individuals by shouting "FIRE!" over and over. If there is an alarm close by, activate it.

Take note of the size of the fire. If the fire is small (the size of wastebasket or smaller) and you have the right extinguisher and an exit route you can take → you may attempt to extinguish it.  If the fire is larger than you, it is growing rapidly, it is producing heavy smoke, or it coincides with your exit → GET OUT NOW! 


Respond by following R.A.C.E. (a standard fire response protocol) R - Rescue anyone in immediate danger A - Activate the alarm C - Contain the fire (only if it is safe to do so: close doors/windows) E - Extinguish (only if the fire is small) or Evacuate 

Evacuate properly

 

Stay as low as possible to avoid smoke inhalation 

Before you open a door, feel with the back of your hand....if it is hot use another exit. 

Never use an elevator 

Once you are out, stay out and do not go back for personal items. 

Call the Fire Department from a safe location. 

If your clothes catch fire STOP → DROP → ROLL (and cover your face with your hands) 


How to Use a Fire Extinguisher (P.A.S.S. Technique)

Only attempt this if the fire is small and you are trained:

P – Pull the pin

A – Aim low at the base of the flames

S – Squeeze the handle

S – Sweep side to side

Which Fire Extinguisher Should You Use?

Fires are classified into different classes (A, B, C, D, E/F, K). Using the wrong extinguisher can make the fire worse (e.g., water on an electrical or oil fire can spread it or electrocute you).

Class

What it is

Safe Extinguishers

NEVER use

A

Ordinary solids (wood, paper, cloth, plastics)

Water, Water Mist, Foam, ABC Dry Powder

—

B

Flammable liquids (petrol, oil, solvents)

Foam, CO₂, ABC Dry Powder, Water Mist (some models)

Plain water

C

Flammable gases (LPG, propane)

ABC Dry Powder (mainly to allow escape)

Water, Foam, CO₂ (can spread gas)

D

Combustible metals (magnesium, titanium)

Special Class D powder only

Anything else

E

Electrical fires (live equipment)

CO₂, ABC Dry Powder, Water Mist (dielectrically tested)

Plain water or Foam

F/K

Cooking oils & fats

Wet Chemical, some Water Mist models

Everything else

Special Focus: Water Mist Fire Extinguishers

Water Mist fire extinguishers are one of the most versatile and safest modern options.

How they work

They discharge microscopic water droplets (mist) under high pressure. The tiny droplets:

  • Absorb heat 500× faster than normal water

  • Create a cooling curtain and block oxygen

  • Are dielectric (non-conductive) up to 1000 V – safe on live electrical equipment

  • Leave almost no residue (unlike powder)

Certified Water Mist extinguishers are effective on:

  • Class A (solids)

  • Class B (some flammable liquids – check label)

  • Class F/K (cooking oils)

  • Electrical fires (E)

  • And many are also tested on Class C gases for escape purposes

Advantages of Water Mist

  • Safe around people (no toxic chemicals)

  • Safe on electrical fires (no conductivity)

  • Minimal cleanup

  • Non-corrosive

  • Environmentally friendly (just de-ionised water + nitrogen/CO₂ propellant)

Limitations

  • Slightly more expensive than basic models

  • Not suitable for Class D metal fires

  • Some cheaper models are only rated for Class A and F – always check the label for full ratings

Popular certified brands: Ultrafire, FireAde, Jewel Saffire, Cactus Water Mist, etc.

Quick Recommendation Chart (Home / Office / Workshop)

Location

Best all-round choice

Alternative / Additional

Home kitchen

Water Mist or Wet Chemical

—

Living areas

Water Mist or ABC Dry Powder

—

Office

Water Mist (clean, safe on electrics)

CO₂ (computers) + ABC powder

Garage / Workshop

ABC Dry Powder + Water Mist

Foam for fuel spills

Car

Small 1–2 kg ABC Powder or Water Mist

—

Final Tips

  • Install smoke detectors and test them monthly

  • Have at least one extinguisher on every floor and in high-risk areas

  • Get annual professional servicing

  • Train all family members or staff on how to use them

  • Tube Suppression System for Electrical Panels and sockets

  • If in doubt—get out and let the fire brigade handle it

A few seconds of correct action with the right extinguisher (especially a modern Water Mist unit) can prevent a small incident from becoming a disaster. Stay prepared, stay safe!


 

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