How well is your home prepared in case of a fire? Fires, even small ones, can quickly get out of control and cause significant damage to your property. A fire extinguisher is a crucial piece of equipment to have on hand in case of a fire, but it’s also important to know how to use one correctly. In fact, everyone in your household, including your kids, should know how to use a fire extinguisher, just in case. Read on to learn more about teaching kids how to use a fire extinguisher.
Instilling Fire Safety Techniques in Kids
As an adult, you probably have a pretty good idea of what to do in case of a fire. But kids? Not so much. That’s why it’s vital to instill some fire safety techniques in kids from an early age. One of the best ways to do this is to have a fire drill at least once a year. This will help kids understand what to do if there’s ever a fire in your home.
When you have a fire drill, make sure to go over the following with your kids:
- How to use a fire extinguisher
- How to call 911
- How to get out of the house quickly and safely
- Where to meet once everyone is outside
In addition to this, teach your kids about the flammable things in your home, like cooking gas, gasoline, grease, and lighters. Explain to them that these things can start a fire if they’re not used properly. Don’t forget to also go over what to do if their clothes ever catch on fire. The last thing you want is for your child to panic and run if they’re ever in this situation.
Teaching Your Kids How To Use a Fire Extinguisher
Now that you’ve gone over fire safety with your kids, it’s time to teach them how to use a fire extinguisher. You first need to show them where the fire extinguishers are located in your home. There should be one in the kitchen, near any fireplaces, and in the garage. Once they know where the extinguishers are, it’s time for a demonstration.
PASS is the acronym for fire extinguisher use:
- P- Pulling the pin located at the top of the fire extinguisher
- A- Aiming the nozzle at the fire’s base
- S- Squeezing the lever
- S- Sweeping the nozzle from one side to the other
When you’re demonstrating, make sure to use a safe, controlled fire. A small candle or piece of paper burning in a metal trashcan is perfect. Once your kids have seen you put out the fire, it’s their turn to try. Let them hold the fire extinguisher and show them how to aim it. They may not be able to put out the fire on their own, but they need to get a feel for how the extinguisher works.
A fire can happen at any time, so your kids must be prepared. By teaching them how to use a fire extinguisher, you’re giving them the tools they need to stay safe. You can never be too prepared when it comes to fire safety.