Probably been discussed before, however.... Our training for Fire Wardens does state that it is acceptable to fight a fire in its early stages, and if trained to do so. Specifically regarding fire extinguishers, and in your opinions, do you think it acceptable for these wardens to be shown how to use the equipment or do you think they would need to physically operate them. When I say shown they will have the extinguisher in front of them, shown how to operate, discuss different uses, and then will view a video on their operation and on which fires etc.

Personally I see nothing wrong with training fire wardens in the use of PFFE. As long as they are aware of their limitations and the proper instructions, then there is no good reason why they should not be able to tackle a small fire. I would include practical training in the use of a fire extinguisher but this is a moot point. In this risk averse age there is a tendency not to allow people to operate outside their comfort zone. Of course, in a real fire the main requirement is to get people to leave the premises promptly and fire wardens to assist others and to check the premises are clear.

In our industry we have vulnerable people in sleeping accommodation and for this reason we train all our staff the safe operation and use of extinguishers and fire blankets. This has proven useful and effective in the past. I have concluded that most people either trained or not would try and tackle a small fire with an extinguisher, and this is another reason for my thought proses to train our staff. As identified above, we stress the importance of tackling a small fire in its incipient stage no bigger that a waste paper basket. All staff attend a 1/2 day fire safety course including practical live fire fighting in which they will complete every 3 years. In between they will complete an annual e-learning course with questions to keep their knowledge up-dated. All are fire courses have IFSM accreditation. Note: Staff are not forced to do the practical part of the training and we do-not expect our staff to fight fires. However, we teach them the skills to make an informed decision to tackle a small fire or not. Our training course is not about using the extinguishers (although this is the part they enjoy) its about fire prevention and safe evacuation.