Preventing Fires Before They Start__ [Jiangxi Xinde Environmental Protection Equipment Co., Ltd.] Conducts Hands-On Fire Drill on the Use of Fire Extinguishers and Fire Hydrants

(Explanation of Firefighting Knowledge by Zhangjiashan Firefighters)

“Be prepared for danger even in times of peace; when you think ahead, you will be ready, and with readiness, you will avoid misfortune.” To enhance employees’ firefighting skills and ensure workplace safety, a fire‑fighting drill on “Proper Use of Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers” was held on July 29, 2024, in the open space at Gate No. 1 of the Jiangxi Xinde Environmental Protection Production Workshop.

More than 30 employees participated in the hands-on drill, with the company’s deputy general manager, Zeng Simi, personally serving as the chief supervisor of the exercise.

Before the hands-on practice, the Zhangjiashan Fire Brigade emphasized the proper use of dry powder fire extinguishers, highlighting four key steps: “lift, pull, grip, and press.”

1. Pick up the fire extinguisher;

2. Remove the safety pin;

3. Grip the hose and point it toward the flame.

4. Press the nozzle firmly and aim it at the ignition source.

The Zhangjiashan Fire Brigade would like to emphasize that when using a fire extinguisher, you should stand upwind and hold the nozzle by its rubber grip, aiming directly at the base of the fire.

This fire drill included a hands-on segment in which teams of two practiced using fire extinguishers and fire hydrants. All company personnel actively tried their hand at extinguishing fires with these tools. Throughout the exercise, the atmosphere was tense yet orderly; however, some employees initially struggled to use the equipment correctly. Fortunately, firefighters provided careful, step-by-step guidance until each person mastered the procedure. We would like to commend the Zhangjiashan firefighters for their professionalism and meticulousness. They also emphasized that, before starting to fight a fire, one must first verify whether the power supply has been disconnected. In situations where the scene is crowded or conditions are complex, it is crucial to promptly deploy fire hydrants, maintain unified command, evacuate people in an orderly manner, and prioritize personal safety to minimize unnecessary injuries. When operating a fire hose, care should be taken to avoid twisting or bending the hose, as this can impede water flow. Firefighting should proceed from near to far, with both the firefighter and the surrounding area protected at all times. During the drill, every pair of employees engaged in cross‑training: one person connected the nozzle, while the other attached the discharge valve; together, they grasped the ends of the two fire hoses and forcefully swung them toward the ground. After releasing the hoses, both held onto the ends—each taking charge of either the nozzle or the discharge valve. Once water was flowing, given the considerable weight of the hose, the correct stance involved placing one foot forward and the other back, allowing both individuals to firmly secure the hose and aim it directly at the source of the fire. The atmosphere on site was both intense and exhilarating, making participants feel as if they were truly immersed in a real firefighting scenario.

Zeng Simi (far left), Deputy General Manager, conducts a hands-on demonstration.

Life is no rehearsal—better to be prepared than sorry. Through this hands-on training session, in which all employees practiced using dry‑powder fire extinguishers and fire hydrants, not only did participants deepen their understanding of firefighting equipment and enhance their operational skills, but they also honed their ability to effectively put out fires and gained valuable real‑world experience. The exercise was highly practical and easy to implement, packed with actionable knowledge. Participants unanimously agreed that the insights gained were extremely useful.

Photo/Text: Xu Sha

Participating departments: Production Department, Sales Department, Labeling Department, Finance Department, and Administration Department.

Guiding Unit: Zhangjiashan Fire Brigade