FORT RUCKER, Ala. (February 13, 2015) -- Fire safety is one of the most important aspects of providing a safe work environment, and Fort Rucker is making it easier to be prepared for an emergency.
The Fort Rucker Directorate of Public Works teamed with Pride Industries to bring the fire extinguisher exchange service to the installation in Bldg. 1429 across from the DPW headquarters on Dilly Branch Road. The hours of operation are Mondays-Fridays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
In order to function properly, fire extinguishers must be routinely inspected and have services performed every six and 12 years, with the 12-year service being a hydrostatic test, said John Ahern, fire prevention inspector.
"We identify out-of-date fire extinguishers for one type of reason or another, and we'll tag the extinguisher depending on its condition and age," he said. "If an extinguisher has been discharged or due for its six-year service or a 12-year hydrostatic service, we'll tag it with either a yellow (six-year service) or red (hydrostatic service) tag."
A hydrostatic test is a method used to pressure test an extinguisher's critical components, including the cylinder, shell, hose assembly, etc., according to the occupational Safety and Health Administration's website, www.osha.gov. The test checks for leaks and structural flaws by pressuring them with liquid.
Although Ahern said the Fort Rucker Fire Prevention Office inspects all fire extinguishers annually to see what tests are needed, he said that occupants should check their extinguishers monthly.
If a fire extinguisher is due for its six-year or hydrostatic test, people can now have them swapped out on post as opposed to having them sent off the installation, said the fire prevention inspector.
In order to have the extinguishers swapped, people must be on a current signature card or have a completed DA Form 1687 with them.
Having a properly functioning fire extinguisher is an important aspect of fire safety, and Ahern said it's something that can save lives.
"A portable fire extinguisher can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or containing it until the fire department arrives, but portable extinguishers have limitations," he said. "Because fire grows and spreads so rapidly, the No. 1 priority is to get all the occupants out safely.
"Use a portable fire extinguisher when the fire is confined to a small area, such as a wastebasket, and is not growing, everyone has exited the building, the fire department has been called or is being called and the room is not filled with smoke," he added.
Ahern suggests that to properly operate a fire extinguisher, remember PASS.
- Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you, and release the locking mechanism.
- Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire.S
- Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
- Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.
Fort Rucker work spaces are provided with multi-purpose extinguishers, which can be used on three types of fires, and are large enough to put out a small fire, but not so heavy as to be difficult to handle, said Ahern.
"If your area requires a special extinguisher, become familiar with its purpose and use," he said. "Read the instructions that come with the fire extinguisher, and become familiar with its parts and operation before a fire breaks out."
The Fort Rucker Fire Department offers classroom and hands-on fire extinguisher training.
Fire extinguishers are typically close to a door, so people should remember to keep their back to a clear exit when using the device in order to make an easy escape if the fire cannot be controlled, said the fire prevention inspector, adding that if the room fills with smoke, to leave immediately.
"Know when to go," he said. "Fire extinguishers are one element of a fire response plan, but the primary element is safe escape. Report all fires, no matter the size."
For more information, call 255-2856 or 255-2659.
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