In Part 5 and 6 of this series by CIA Insurers, CIA provides tips on how to extinguish a fire but more especially where possible to ensure that back up assistance is available before tackling a fire, and to preferably work in pairs.
While the general rules for fighting fires are the same for most fires, it is very important to remember that one’s personal safety must come first.
Here are some practical guidelines:
Ensure that an escape route is available before committing yourself to tackling the fire.
Follow the instructions on the extinguisher label when activating the unit.
Do not place yourself at risk. If the fire is too big or begins to spread, vacate the area immediately.
Apply the extinguisher medium to the base of the flames, moving the nozzle with a rapid side to side action, driving the flames way from you.
If the fire is outdoors, approach the fire from the windward side to ensure that smoke and flames blow away from you.
When approaching the fire, adopt a crouching attitude which provides some protection against heat and smoke.
Never tilt or invert any extinguisher during operation unless it is a turn-over type.
Keep alert for any changes in the fire pattern.
When tackling a fire involving electrical equipment, isolate the power as soon as possible to prevent re-ignition.
When extinguishing a flammable liquid spillage fire, never walk in the spillage area in case the flames flash back.
When tackling flammable liquid fires using a controllable discharge type extinguisher, do not interrupt the flow of extinguishing medium until the fire is completely extinguished.
Ensure that the fire has been completely extinguished and that no sparks remain.
When the fire has been extinguished, back off slowly and never turn your back to the scene in case of a flare up.
The information contained in this article must be seen as a set of guidelines and does not purport to provide legal or other professional advice. If such advice is needed, consult with your legal or other qualified adviser. CIA will not accept any responsibility towards any person relying upon the contents hereof nor accept any liability whatsoever for the accuracy of information supplied by a third party or the consequences of relying upon it.   
Commercial & Industrial Acceptances (Pty) Ltd (CIA) can be contacted on www.cia.co.za
Scheme Executives are advised to contact their scheme’s insurance brokers to get advice on the requirements for provision and positioning of fire extinguishers in their scheme to comply with any insurance requirements.