Fire hydrant
A hydrant only helps if crews can reach it
Four steps cover the whole job. The harder judgement is whether to fight the fire at all. An extinguisher is for a small fire that is staying small. Anything larger than a wastebasket, anything between you and the way out, or anything still growing after one sweep is a fire to walk away from.
What to do
- Pull the pin.
- Aim low, at the base of the fire rather than the flames.
- Squeeze the handle.
- Sweep side to side.
- If the fire is growing, blocking your exit, or bigger than a wastebasket, leave instead and call 911.
| Category | Fire suppression & response |
|---|---|
| Where | Public infrastructure |
In an emergency, always call 911.
Also in fire suppression & response
Home fire extinguisher
The one nearest the stove is the one most likely to be used
Is there one of these near you?
A ResQ‑R badge on one of these carries this same guidance, plus where that particular one is and who looks after it. Point your phone’s camera at the Dalmatian’s spots — no app, no account. See how it works.