FAQ

What is the easiest way to remember how to use a fire extinguisher?
You can use the acronym PASS to remember how to use a fire extinguisher:

  • 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.
  • Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
  • Sweep the nozzle from side-to-side.

What are the different types of fire extinguishers?
For details, check out this article. The basics are as follows:

  • Class A: best if used for fires fueled by paper or wood
  • Class B: best for fires involving flammable liquids, oils, paints, and gasoline
  • Class C: best used when the fire involves electrical systems such as wiring, or devices like power tools

Where is a home most vulnerable to fire?
A fifth of all home fires start in the kitchen. There is a constant potential for fire due to the constant use of the room each day for cooking. The most common kitchen fires involve oil or grease igniting, sometimes due to buildup on the stove or its hood. Cleaning the buildup on a regular basis can help keep your home safe.

How should an oil or grease kitchen fire be combated?
Water should never be used for these types of fires as it will only result in the fire spreading. Instead, cover the fire with a lid or non-flammable powder to cut off the oxygen supply and starve the flame. Do not try and move the fire out of the kitchen if it is in a pan or skillet as this will often result in a spill that makes the fire worse.

When are people most vulnerable to injury or death from fire?
The majority of fatal fires happen at night. When people are sleeping, they may not wake if the air becomes smoky or fills with gas. Alarms provide early detection that can wake people up and allow time for evacuation. Having smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors cuts the risk of dying in a fire significantly.

What needs to be done if a backflow assembly fails?
A failed backfow must be reported to the water district within 72 hours. If a backflow cross connection is contaminated, it can result in a $1000/day fine. Simply turning off the water supply is not a corrective measure: a licensed plumber, not a certified tester, must perform the repairs.

How should strobes and horns be configured?
Strobes need to be synced with all other strobes within line of sight to prevent adverse reactions in people sensitive to random flashes. Horns need to have their sound levels set to be at least 15 decibels above the common area noise level.

For additional information contact a representative at Gate Keepers Fire & Safety at (303) 915-3670 or click here to send us a message.

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