This releases the pressurized gas that will propel the dry chemical agent out of the extinguisher.

2. Aim at the base of the fire

This is where the fire is the hottest and most intense.

3. Squeeze the handle

This releases the dry chemical agent, which will coat the fire and smother it.

How do dry chemical fire extinguishers work?

Dry chemical fire extinguishers work by interrupting the chemical chain reaction that is creating the fire. The dry chemical agent is made up of very small particles of a compound such as sodium bicarbonate or potassium bicarbonate. These particles absorb heat and release free radicals, which are atoms or molecules that have unpaired electrons. The free radicals then react with other molecules in the fire, such as oxygen, hydrogen, and hydrocarbons, to break down the chains and stop the fire from spreading.