Daphne Fire Extinguisher Training Open to Residents, Businesses Through New Grant

DAPHNE, Ala. — Daphne residents, businesses and organizations can now schedule hands-on Daphne fire extinguisher training with the city’s fire prevention bureau, thanks to a grant that supports the use of a BullsEye Fire Extinguisher Training Simulator. The Daphne Fire Bureau of Fire Prevention received the funding through the Gulf Coast Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) Council’s 2027 awards.

The grant will help support fire safety education by giving individuals, businesses and groups the chance to learn how to properly use a portable fire extinguisher in a safe, simulated training environment, according to the bureau.

How the simulator works

The BullsEye Fire Extinguisher Training Simulator lets participants practice extinguisher-use techniques in a simulated setting, reinforcing fire safety knowledge without the need for a live-fire training exercise.

Digital training systems of this kind generally use a projected or on-screen “fire” and a training extinguisher that the user aims and operates. The system responds to where and how the participant sprays, so trainees can see whether their technique would put out a real fire. Because there are no open flames, smoke or discharged chemicals, the training can be held indoors, in offices, classrooms or meeting spaces, and repeated as many times as needed.

Why extinguisher training matters

The bureau said portable fire extinguisher training is an important part of fire prevention and emergency preparedness. Understanding how to operate an extinguisher and respond appropriately to a small fire can help people make informed decisions during an emergency.

Fire safety instructors commonly teach the PASS method for using a portable extinguisher:

• Pull the pin.
• Aim the nozzle low, at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the handle.
• Sweep from side to side.

Just as important is knowing when not to fight a fire. Safety agencies advise that a portable extinguisher is meant for small, contained fires, and that people should alert others, call 911 and get out if a fire is spreading, if smoke is filling the room or if they do not have a clear exit behind them. Practicing in a simulator helps people learn both the technique and those judgment calls before they ever face a real fire.

For businesses, training can also help employees understand where extinguishers are located in the workplace and what type is installed, since different extinguishers are rated for different kinds of fires, such as ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, electrical equipment or cooking oils.

About the Gulf Coast RC&D Council

Resource Conservation and Development councils are nonprofit organizations that grew out of a U.S. Department of Agriculture program and work on community improvement, conservation and public safety projects in their regions. The Gulf Coast RC&D Council provides funding for local projects, including the Daphne bureau’s training effort.

The Daphne Fire Bureau of Fire Prevention said it appreciates the council’s support in helping promote fire prevention education and strengthen community fire safety.

How to schedule a class

The bureau is encouraging residents, businesses and organizations to take an active role in fire safety by arranging training for themselves, their employees or their groups. Those interested can include:

• Individuals and families who want to be prepared at home
• Businesses training employees on workplace fire safety
• Churches, civic clubs, homeowners associations and other community groups

Anyone interested in participating in portable fire extinguisher training can contact the Daphne Fire Department’s Bureau of Fire Prevention to schedule a class.