At the beginning of each semester of laboratory, check with the instructor on proper use of fire extinguishers. See Guide to Classes of Fires to see which particular fire extinguishers are effective on which fires. Keep all doors labeled as fire doors closed at all times. Do not block access to fire escapes by furniture or other stray objects. Neatness prevents many fires.
Fire spreads much faster when it has cluttered waste materials to feed on.
Oily rags, waste or papers improperly stored are important causes of spontaneous combustion. Store these materials in covered metal containers. Never hesitate to ring the alarm, regardless of how small the fire appears. If there is no injury, and the fire is contained in a vessel, it can usually be suffocated by covering the vessel with an inverted beaker or watchglass. Do not use towels or clothes.