Ok. This is a totally random subject for me, I know.

Yesterday I attended a lesson on how to use a fire extinguisher. I had a great time - except for the part where they showed us live footage from this 1985 soccer disaster. It was awful to watch, but I think it helped give me a healthy dose of fear. I really enjoy a roaring beach fire or a cozy one in my fireplace. I had no real sense of how fast a building fire can actually spread. The stadium fire went from a small controllable fire (could have been put out with an extinguisher) to an out-of-control deadly inferno in less than five minutes.

So…back to the lighter side, I’m sharing some pictures from the class, as well as some things I learned:

Our handsome instructors setting up a little propane fire for us

Giving us one last review of the steps which I will share with you, cause I care:

Steps:

1. Make sure you know ahead of time where your extinguisher is located
2. When you see a fire, make sure people start to evacuate. Try to keep a buddy with you if you are going to attempt extinguishing the fire.
3. Call the Fire Department or pull the fire alarm
4. As you get ready to extinguish, make sure that you are next to an exit. Never allow the fire to be between you and your exit.
5. Acronym Time: PASS
   Pull the pin
   Aim at the base of the fire
   Squeeze the handle (the handle is pushed from the top, the bottom part is for you to lift/hold the extinguisher)
   Sweep the extinguisher blast back and forth
6. After 15 seconds of sweeping, if the fire is still going, stop and evacuate. Do not attempt to continue fighting the fire!! Very important!! 

I really recommend signing up for this sort of class if it ever gets offered to you.

Here’s one last photo of one of my classmates extinguishing the fire. We used CO2 Extinguishers, but most extinguishers in public buildings are the powder versions. Also, check the label, most extinguishers are ABC which means they are good for all types of fires, including electrical - but not magnesium fires. I don’t know how often you’d encounter a magnesium fire though ;)

As you can see from the picture, another bonus was having your back rubbed and encouraging words whispered in your ear by friendly fireman.