Fire Safety and Prevention

An important part of fire safety is knowing where to find fire extinguishers and how to use them. If you would like more information or would like to schedule a presentation on the correct use of fire extinguishers, call the Fire Prevention Officer at the Division of Environmental Health and Safety at 333-9711. In the case of an actual fire, call 911 for assistance.
Know the location of extinguishers in your immediate area. Report missing extinguishers to the RA/RD, Building Supervisor, or the Division of Environmental Health and Safety at 333-9711, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Read the instructions for use before attempting to extinguish a fire. Do this before an emergency occurs.


Types of Fires

• Class A: Ordinary combustibles such as papers, rags, wood, etc.
• Class B: Oil, flammable solvents, gasoline, grease, etc.
• Class C: Electrical fires, energized electrical equipment

Types of Extinguishers

• Pressurized water - use only on Class A fires
• Dry chemical - use on Class A, B, or C fires
• Carbon dioxide - use on Class B or C fires

Extinguisher Use

P.A.S.S.

• Pull the pin from the handle.
• Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire. Hold the nozzle firmly and stand 8-10 feet from the fire (movement closer may be necessary for complete coverage).
• Squeeze the handle to activate the extinguisher.
• Sweep the base of the fire from side to side and proceed upward until the fire is extinguished.

For further information about the use of extinguishers please contact:
Division of Environmental Health and Safety (DEHS)
101 South Gregory Street, MC-225
Urbana, IL 61801
(217) 333-9711
dxbeasle@uiuc.edu

To report a fire or for emergency assistance call 911