About Fire Extinguishers Fire extinguishers are special pressurized devices that release chemicals or water to put out a fire. They keep small fires from spreading, assist in fighting fires until the fire department arrives and can help provide an escape route for you and your family. Fire is a result of a chemical reaction called combustion.
Fire needs fuel, oxygen and heat in order to burn.
Small household fires can be quickly controlled by a fire extinguisher. Every home should have at least one fire extinguisher, but simply owning an extinguisher is not enough. One-third of all people injured by fire are hurt while trying to control or extinguish the fire. You need the right type of extinguisher and you must know how to use it. An extinguisher is no substitute for the fire department.