Fire Extinguisher Practice by Safety Speaker John Drebinger

I don’t know about you, but I had read how to use a fire extinguisher for years and fortunately, I had never had the need to put one to use. A few years ago, I was at a location where they had the local supplier of safety equipment and fire extinguishers come to the site with instruction, a demonstration and an opportunity for each person to actually extinguish a fire.

It was my turn so the instructor ignited a pan filled with a flammable liquid. I took one of the fire extinguishers and aimed at the base of the flame. I learned first hand some very important details. First, it is entirely possible to blow the fire and the combustible material right out of the pan and spread the fire. It took me a couple of tries to figure out what worked best.

Obviously, fire prevention is important, but how many of your employees know how to actually put out a fire. If someone were standing on the other side of the fire on my first try I would have splashed the fire right on to them or at the very least spread the fire. I also imagine it would be easy to panic when things began to go bad.

Now, since I have actually succeeded, I have a level of confidence as well as the skills necessary.

People will likely remember this because it is an emotional experience even though the conditions were controlled.  I am sure you can find a vendor in your area to put on such a demonstration. Also, consider giving all your employees the opportunity even if they work in an office. You just might help save one of their family members.

For more great ideas contact me regarding my presentation skills training at 209-747-9645. You too can be an effective safety speaker.