Chapter 6: Portable Fire Extinguishers
This chapter focuses on the selection, operation, and maintenance of portable fire extinguishers used to control incipient-stage fires. It begins by explaining the fire classification system (Class A, B, C, D, and K) so that responders can match the correct extinguishing agent to the burning fuel . The chapter then examines the major types of extinguishing agents—including water, dry chemical, carbon dioxide (CO₂), aqueous film forming foam (AFFF), wet chemical, clean agent, and dry powder—along with their specific mechanisms of action (cooling, smothering, chemical flame inhibition, and saponification) . It also details the PASS application method (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep) for safe and effective operation, the importance of maintaining an exit behind the operator, and the inspection and maintenance requirements outlined in NFPA 10 .
Document information
- Uploaded on
- November 6, 2026
- Number of pages
- 9
- Written in
- 2026/2027
- Type
- Exam (elaborations)
- Contains
- Questions & answers
