In case of a fire, what should all employees be trained to use?

All employees should be trained to use a fire extinguisher because it is a critical tool for combating small fires before they escalate. Fire extinguishers come in various types, each designed to address specific fire classes, such as those involving flammable liquids, electrical fires, or common combustibles. Knowing how to properly operate a fire extinguisher—understanding how to pull the pin, aim the nozzle, and sweep side to side—can effectively help in extinguishing a fire quickly and safely.

While it is also important for employees to know about fire alarms and emergency exits, these elements serve different purposes in fire safety. Fire alarms alert individuals to the presence of fire and initiate evacuation, while emergency exits are crucial for ensuring safe evacuation. However, the ability to immediately address a small fire threat with an extinguisher is an essential part of an effective fire safety plan, providing employees with the means to act decisively before the situation worsens.