1.3.1 Fire Extinguishers (Q&A)

Short Answer Questions

1. What is the function of a fire extinguisher?
   Answer
   A fire extinguisher is used to extinguish fires by applying a substance that cools the burning material, deprives it of oxygen, or inhibits the chemical reactions needed to sustain the fire.
2. What type of fire extinguisher is labelled with a red colour?
   Answer
   Water fire extinguisher.
3. Which class of fire can be extinguished using a foam fire extinguisher?
   Answer
   Class A and Class B fires.
4. What type of fire extinguisher is labelled with a black colour?
   Answer
   Carbon dioxide fire extinguisher.
5. How does a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher put out fires?
   Answer
   It displaces oxygen, which is necessary for combustion.
6. What is the main function of a dry powder fire extinguisher?
   Answer
   It creates a layer that separates fuel from oxygen, extinguishing the fire.
7. What is the purpose of a fire blanket?
   Answer
   A fire blanket is used to put out small fires or wrap around a person whose clothes are on fire by cutting off the oxygen supply.
8. What type of fire extinguisher should be used for electrical fires?
   Answer
   Carbon dioxide or dry powder fire extinguisher.
9. Which class of fire involves flammable gases like methane and propane?
   Answer
   Class C fires.
10. What are the four steps of the PASS method for using a fire extinguisher?
    Answer
    
    P – Pull the pin.
    A – Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.
    S – Squeeze the handle.
    S – Sweep the nozzle from side to side.
    
11. Why is regular inspection of fire extinguishers important?
    Answer
    To ensure they are in proper working condition and can be used effectively in emergencies.
12. What should be checked during a fire extinguisher inspection?
    Answer
    Type of extinguisher, expiration date, pressure gauge, inspection date, and placement.
13. What type of fire extinguisher should be used for Class D fires involving combustible metals?
    Answer
    Dry powder fire extinguisher.
14. What should you do if a fire cannot be controlled?
    Answer
    Evacuate immediately and call emergency services.
15. How does a simple fire extinguisher made with baking soda and vinegar work?
    Answer
    It produces carbon dioxide gas, which helps to smother the fire by displacing oxygen.
16. What three elements are required for a fire to occur?
    Answer
    Oxygen, heat, and fuel.
17. Where should fire extinguishers be placed?
    Answer
    In easily accessible locations.
18. Why must the pressure gauge of a fire extinguisher be checked?
    Answer
    To ensure it is in the green zone, indicating proper pressure for use.
19. What is the primary function of foam in foam fire extinguishers?
    Answer
    It forms a layer that prevents reignition of the fire.
20. Which type of fire extinguisher is best suited for cooking oil fires?
    Answer
    Carbon dioxide or dry powder fire extinguisher.

Explanation Questions

1. Why is it important to use the correct type of fire extinguisher for different fire classes?
   Answer
   Using the wrong extinguisher can make the fire worse. For example, water should not be used on electrical or oil fires as it can spread the flames or cause electric shock.
2. How does a dry powder fire extinguisher work to extinguish fires?
   Answer
   It creates a barrier between the fuel and oxygen, stopping the fire from continuing to burn.
3. Explain why electrical fires should not be extinguished with water.
   Answer
   Water is a conductor of electricity and can cause electrocution or further spread the fire.
4. Why is the PASS method used when operating a fire extinguisher?
   Answer
   The PASS method ensures the fire extinguisher is used effectively to put out the fire completely.
5. Describe the importance of fire extinguisher maintenance and auditing.
   Answer
   Regular maintenance ensures fire extinguishers function properly during emergencies. Expired or damaged extinguishers may not work effectively.
6. What happens if a fire blanket is not used properly?
   Answer
   If not properly placed, oxygen may still reach the fire, allowing it to continue burning.
7. Why should fire extinguishers be placed in accessible locations?
   Answer
   So they can be quickly used in emergencies to prevent fires from spreading.
8. What dangers can arise from using an expired fire extinguisher?
   Answer
   It may not function properly, failing to put out a fire effectively.
9. Why is it important to evacuate if a fire becomes uncontrollable?
   Answer
   Staying in a fire can cause injury or death due to smoke inhalation or burns.
10. How does carbon dioxide help in extinguishing a fire?
    Answer
    Carbon dioxide displaces oxygen, which is needed for combustion.