Garage Construction Project

Fire Extinguisher Plan

14 min read

Overview

The garage will operate as a fabrication bay downstairs with diesel heaters, compressor, lift, and battery chargers, plus a loft workshop/office upstairs (20-Design/Interior/Air and Battery Tool Strategy.md, 20-Design/Interior/Temporary Heating (Winter 2025-26).md). To keep every zone within the NFPA 10 recommendation of ≤50 ft travel distance to an extinguisher, mount the units listed below once framing is ready.

Extinguisher Types

Primary ABC Extinguishers

  • 10 lb ABC (4A:80BC) dry-chemical extinguishers—covers wood, plastics, flammable liquids, and energized equipment typical for automotive work.
  • Placement: Main floor (4 units), loft (2 units) ensuring ≤50 ft travel distance from any point.

Specialized Extinguishers (Required)

Lithium-Ion Battery Extinguishers (Critical)

  • Type: AVD (Aqueous Vermiculite Dispersion) technology specifically designed for lithium-ion battery fires.
  • Why Required: Standard ABC extinguishers are ineffective against lithium battery thermal runaway. ABC/CO₂ extinguishers can suppress flames temporarily but fail to provide the necessary cooling, leading to re-ignition. Li-ion fires require specialized cooling agents.
  • Locations:
    • East workbench battery charging station (multiple tool platforms: Milwaukee, DeWalt, etc.)
    • Loft charging station near workbench/desk area
  • Note: Battery charging stations operate on dedicated 20A circuits with high fire risk during charging cycles. Thermal runaway events can escalate rapidly without proper suppression.

Fire Blankets (Multi-Purpose)

  • Material: 40”×40” fiberglass fire blankets (rated to 1000°F+)
  • Uses: Lithium battery fires (supplement to AVD extinguisher), small fuel fires, clothing fires, welding spark containment, wrapping hot metal parts.
  • Locations:
    • Welding/plasma cutting area (primary - required for hot work safety)
    • East workbench battery charging station (backup to AVD extinguisher)
    • Near diesel heater window insert (fuel fire containment)

Optional Add-Ons (Future Expansion)

  • Class D (sodium chloride or copper) near a future magnesium grinding or sodium-filled component station if the metalworking scope expands.
  • Class K can be added later if the loft kitchen/kitchenette installs a cooktop or fryer.
  • 20 lb ABC upgrade for lift bay if working extensively on vehicles or EVs.

Mounting Hardware

  • ABC Extinguishers: Metal hooks with photoluminescent “FIRE EXTINGUISHER” placards; handle height 42–48 in so units stay visible behind staged materials.
  • AVD Extinguishers: Wall-mount brackets included with units; install at 42–48 in handle height near charging stations.
  • Fire Blankets: Wall-mounted quick-release cases; install at eye level (60–66 in) for immediate access.

Product Recommendations

Required Equipment

Use CaseModel & LinkNotesPriority
Primary 10 lb ABCAmerex B456, 10 lb 4A:80BCMetal valve, UL rating exceeds minimum, ships with wall bracket. ~$94 with free shipping.Required (6 units)
Compact 5.5 lb ABCKidde Pro 340 3A:40BCLighter unit for loft stair landing; rechargeable aluminum construction.Required (1 unit)
Lithium Battery ExtinguisherAVD Lith-Ex 2LAVD technology for Li-ion battery fires. Essential for charging stations. ~$150-200 each.CRITICAL (2 units)
Fire Blanket40”×40” fiberglass (1000°F+)Welding area, battery stations, heater area. ~$20-40 each.Required (3 units)
Smoke/CO Combo AlarmsInterconnected hardwired unitsMain floor, loft, mechanical room. First Alert or Kidde preferred. ~$35-50 each.Required (3 units)

Optional/Future Equipment

Use CaseModel & LinkNotesPriority
Class D (optional)Amerex B570 Sodium Chloride Class D30 lb; rated for magnesium, sodium, potassium fires. ~$849.Optional
Class K (future kitchenette)Badger Extra 25064 6L Wet ChemWall-mounted wet-chemical for cooking oils. ~$288.Future
Heavy-Duty ABC (vehicle fires)Amerex B456 20 lb or similarLarger capacity for vehicle fires if working on EVs. ~$150-180.Optional
Emergency Escape Ladder2-story portable ladderLoft emergency egress if fire blocks stairs. ~$50-100.Recommended

Total Initial Investment: ~$1,100-1,400 for all required equipment (6× ABC, 1× compact ABC, 2× lithium, 3× blankets, 3× alarms)

Main Floor Locations

ABC Extinguishers (10 lb, 4A:80BC)

  1. FE-1: Compressor / Mechanical Room Door — Covers the electrical panel, boiler, and compressor cluster where electrical and gas-fed fires could start (50-Build/Mechanical Room.md). Also protects fuel storage area if diesel containers stored in mechanical room.

  2. FE-2: East Workbench & Welding Area — Dual purpose: serves battery chargers, cord reels, and finishing tasks; also serves as welding/plasma cutting fire safety station (OSHA requires 2A:20BC minimum within 35 ft of hot work; this 4A:80BC unit exceeds requirement). Mount on stud bay endcap closest to workbench, ensuring visibility from welding station and 50A welder/plasma outlet.

  3. FE-3: Diesel Heater Window Insert — Place on same wall but at least 10 ft from heaters so you can intervene without entering the exhaust plume (20-Design/Interior/Temporary Heating (Winter 2025-26).md). Protects diesel fuel storage area (5-gallon containers used for heater operation at 0.2-0.3 L/hr consumption rate).

  4. FE-4: Primary Personnel Entry / South Door — Ensures anyone entering or exiting has immediate access and covers the lift aisle when vehicles block other stations. Critical for evacuation scenarios.

  5. FE-5: Lift Bay / Center Column — Covers vehicle work area where flammable fluids (gasoline, oil, brake fluid) and electrical loads mix. Post-mounted at rear column for accessibility during lift operations.

  6. FE-6: West Bay / Overhead Door — Covers Bay 1 work area and provides coverage for west perimeter outlets and air system drops.

Specialized Equipment Locations

Lithium Battery Fire Stations (AVD Extinguisher + Fire Blanket)

  • LB-1: East Workbench Battery Charging Station — Wall-mounted AVD Lith-Ex 2L extinguisher + 40”×40” fire blanket at dedicated 20A charging circuit serving multiple tool platforms (Milwaukee, DeWalt, etc.). Clearly marked “LITHIUM BATTERY FIRE STATION” with usage instructions posted.

Fire Blanket Stations (Additional)

  • FB-1: Welding/Plasma Cutting Area — 40”×40” fiberglass blanket at east workbench near 50A NEMA 6-50 welder outlet. Required for hot work fire safety and spark containment. Post fire watch procedures here (30-minute post-work monitoring required).

  • FB-2: Diesel Heater Area — 40”×40” fiberglass blanket near window insert for fuel fire containment. Secondary protection for diesel heater combustion emergencies.

Fuel Storage Area

  • Diesel Fuel Storage — 5-gallon approved containers for diesel heater operation. Store in mechanical room or designated area with ABC extinguisher (FE-1 or FE-3) within 10 ft. Keep away from ignition sources. Use only UL/FM approved fuel containers with proper labeling.

Result: Any point on the 24’×40’ slab is ≤50 ft from an ABC extinguisher. Specialized hazards (lithium batteries, welding, fuel storage) have dedicated suppression equipment exceeding code minimums.

Loft / Second Floor Locations

ABC Extinguishers

  1. FE-L1: Top of Stair Landing — Compact 5.5 lb Kidde Pro 340 (3A:40BC) serves as the “grab and go” extinguisher while maintaining the exit path. Lighter weight for quick deployment. Critical for evacuation scenarios.

  2. FE-L2: Opposite End Workbench / Desk Area — 10 lb ABC extinguisher protects office equipment, server/network gear, or light fabrication planned for the loft. Covers electrical fires from computer equipment and workshop tools.

Specialized Equipment

Lithium Battery Fire Station

  • LB-2: Loft Charging Station — Wall-mounted AVD Lith-Ex 2L extinguisher + 40”×40” fire blanket near workbench/desk area where battery tool charging occurs. Mark clearly with “LITHIUM BATTERY FIRE STATION” signage.

Future Additions

  • (Future) Add Class K extinguisher next to any kitchenette or break area if cooking appliances are installed.
  • Emergency Egress: Consider emergency escape ladder near loft window for secondary egress if fire blocks stairway. Single-stair configuration poses evacuation risk in fire scenarios.

Smoke and CO Detection System

Required Locations (Interconnected, Hardwired with Battery Backup):

  1. Main Floor — Ceiling-mounted smoke/CO combo alarm centrally located to detect diesel heater exhaust issues, vehicle exhaust, generator backfeed, or fire conditions. Position away from heater direct airflow to prevent false alarms but within detection range.

  2. Loft / Second Floor — Smoke/CO combo alarm at ceiling near stair landing. Critical for early warning if fire blocks escape route. Loft position also monitors house connection if attached garage.

  3. Mechanical Room — Smoke/CO combo alarm near boiler and electrical panel. Monitors natural gas appliances, electrical equipment, and fuel storage area.

Interconnection: All three alarms must be interconnected so activation of one triggers all units. Provides early warning regardless of location in building.

Product Recommendation: First Alert or Kidde hardwired smoke/CO combo alarms with battery backup (~$35-50 each). Connect per NEC requirements during electrical rough-in.

Testing Schedule:

  • Monthly: Test all alarms using test button; verify interconnection works (all alarms sound).
  • Annually: Replace backup batteries; vacuum sensor chambers.
  • 10-year replacement: Replace entire units per manufacturer end-of-life.

Integration: Alarm locations documented in content/Manuals/Main Floor Safety Manual.md and referenced on visitor safety briefing sign.

Emergency Response Procedures

When to Fight vs. Evacuate

Use Extinguisher If:

  • Fire is smaller than a trash can
  • You have the correct extinguisher type for the fire
  • Fire is not between you and the exit
  • You have been trained on extinguisher use
  • You feel safe and confident

Evacuate Immediately If:

  • Fire is larger than a trash can or spreading rapidly
  • Fire blocks your exit path
  • Smoke makes breathing difficult
  • You are unsure how to use extinguisher
  • Extinguisher is empty or wrong type (e.g., ABC used on lithium battery fire)
  • Building alarms are sounding

NEVER fight a fire alone. Always have someone call 911 first, even if you plan to use an extinguisher.

Emergency Contacts

Primary Emergency: 911 (Fire/EMS)

Secondary Contacts:

  • Property owner/manager: [Add contact info]
  • Licensed electrician: [Add contact from vendor list]
  • Licensed gas fitter: [Add contact from vendor list]
  • Neighbors (for mutual aid): [Add contacts]

Post these numbers:

  • At each exit door
  • Near fire extinguisher stations
  • In mechanical room
  • In loft office area

Evacuation Routes

Main Floor:

  • Primary Exit: South personnel door (FE-4 location)
  • Secondary Exit: Overhead doors (Bay 1, Bay 2, Bay 3 - any available)
  • Tertiary Exit: Any window if doors blocked

Loft:

  • Primary Exit: Stairs to main floor, then personnel door
  • Secondary Exit: Loft window with emergency escape ladder (if installed)
  • WARNING: Single stair configuration means fire blocking stairs eliminates primary egress

Meeting Point: [Designate outdoor location minimum 50 ft from building, e.g., “mailbox at street” or “driveway entrance”]

Accountability: Ensure all persons exit building. DO NOT re-enter for any reason until fire department declares all-clear.

Fire-Specific Procedures

Lithium Battery Fire

  1. If fire is in early stage (smoking, swelling):

    • Evacuate area immediately
    • Call 911
    • Use AVD extinguisher if trained and fire is small
    • DO NOT use ABC/CO₂ extinguisher (ineffective and may worsen)
    • If extinguisher fails, use fire blanket to contain and prevent spread

  2. If battery in thermal runaway (flames, intense heat):

    • Evacuate building immediately
    • Call 911; inform dispatcher “lithium battery fire”
    • Do not attempt to fight; let fire department handle
    • Battery may re-ignite multiple times; maintain evacuation until professional all-clear

  3. Prevention:

    • Never charge damaged or swollen batteries
    • Use only manufacturer-approved chargers
    • Charge in ventilated area with fire suppression nearby
    • Store batteries away from heat sources and flammables
    • Monitor charging batteries; don’t leave unattended overnight

Welding/Hot Work Fire

  1. Fire Watch: Always maintain 30-minute fire watch after welding/cutting operations cease
  2. Fire during welding:
    • Stop work immediately
    • Use fire blanket for small sparks/smoldering
    • Use ABC extinguisher (FE-2) for open flame
    • Evacuate if fire spreads beyond immediate control
  3. Prevention:
    • Clear 35-ft radius of combustibles before hot work
    • Cover floor drains to prevent sparks entering
    • Keep fire blanket and extinguisher within arm’s reach
    • Have spotter watch for sparks traveling to hidden spaces

Fuel/Diesel Fire

  1. Use ABC extinguisher (effective on Class B flammable liquids)
  2. Aim at base of flames, sweep side to side
  3. If fuel source cannot be shut off, evacuate and call 911
  4. Never use water on fuel fires
  5. Fire blanket effective for small spills if fire not established

Vehicle Fire

  1. If engine compartment fire: DO NOT open hood fully (oxygen influx accelerates fire)
  2. Use ABC extinguisher through hood gap or from underneath
  3. Evacuate if fire reaches fuel tank or spreads beyond engine bay
  4. If EV fire: Evacuate immediately, call 911, inform dispatcher “electric vehicle fire”

Electrical Fire

  1. De-energize circuit at panel if safe to do so
  2. Use ABC extinguisher (rated for Class C electrical fires)
  3. If panel fire or cannot safely de-energize: evacuate and call 911
  4. Never use water on electrical fires

Training and Education

Required Training for Regular Users

Initial Training (before using facility):

  • Fire extinguisher types and applications
  • PASS method demonstration and practice
  • Lithium battery fire recognition and AVD extinguisher use
  • Fire blanket deployment techniques
  • Evacuation routes and meeting point
  • Emergency contact procedures
  • Fight vs. flee decision criteria

Annual Refresher:

  • Review PASS method with hands-on practice
  • Review new hazards or equipment changes
  • Practice fire drill (timed evacuation)
  • Inspect all fire safety equipment together
  • Update emergency contact list

Specialized Training:

  • Welding/hot work: Fire watch procedures, 35-ft clearance, fire blanket use
  • Battery charging: Thermal runaway recognition, AVD extinguisher use
  • Generator operation: Exhaust management, CO awareness, fuel safety

PASS Method (Posted at Every Extinguisher)

Fire Extinguisher Use - PASS Method:

P - PULL the pin at the top of the extinguisher

A - AIM the nozzle at the base of the flames (not at the flames themselves)

S - SQUEEZE the handles together to discharge

S - SWEEP from side to side at the base of the fire

After Use:

  • Evacuate if fire not fully extinguished
  • Recharge extinguisher immediately (even partial use)
  • Call professional fire extinguisher service for inspection

Lithium Battery Fire Station Signage

Post at LB-1 and LB-2 locations:

⚠️ LITHIUM BATTERY FIRE STATION ⚠️

LITHIUM BATTERY FIRE PROCEDURE:
1. EVACUATE AREA - thermal runaway spreads rapidly
2. CALL 911 - inform dispatcher "lithium battery fire"
3. IF SAFE AND TRAINED:
   - Use AVD extinguisher (this location)
   - DO NOT use ABC extinguisher (ineffective)
   - Use fire blanket if extinguisher fails
4. DO NOT RE-ENTER - batteries may re-ignite
5. Ventilate area after fire (toxic fumes)

PREVENTION:
- Never charge damaged/swollen batteries
- Use manufacturer-approved chargers only
- Monitor charging - don't leave unattended
- Store away from heat and flammables

Emergency: 911

Welding Fire Watch Procedures (Post at FB-1)

🔥 HOT WORK FIRE SAFETY 🔥

BEFORE WELDING/CUTTING:
□ Clear 35-ft radius of combustibles
□ Cover floor drains
□ Position fire blanket and FE-2 extinguisher within reach
□ Assign fire watch if working alone not possible

DURING WORK:
□ Monitor for sparks traveling to hidden spaces
□ Keep extinguisher accessible (not blocked)
□ Watch for smoldering materials

AFTER WORK (CRITICAL):
□ MANDATORY 30-MINUTE FIRE WATCH
□ Check all areas where sparks traveled
□ Monitor for smoldering materials
□ Do not leave building until fire watch complete

Fire extinguisher: PASS method (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep)

Inspection & Signage

Monthly Inspection Checklist

ABC and Lithium Extinguishers:

  • Pressure gauge in green zone (rechargeable units)
  • Pin and tamper seal intact
  • No visible damage to hose, nozzle, or cylinder
  • Inspection tag current (professional annual service)
  • Mounting bracket secure; photoluminescent sign visible
  • 36” clearance in front of extinguisher maintained
  • Location ID label visible (FE-1, FE-2, LB-1, etc.)

Fire Blankets:

  • Quick-release case undamaged; blanket accessible
  • Usage instructions posted and legible
  • Blanket not deployed or contaminated
  • Mounting height 60–66” (eye level)

Smoke/CO Alarms:

  • Test button pressed; all interconnected units sound
  • No chirping (low battery warning)
  • Sensor clean (vacuum if dusty)
  • Manufacture date visible; replace at 10 years

Signage:

  • PASS method posted at each ABC extinguisher
  • Lithium battery procedures posted at LB-1, LB-2
  • Welding fire watch procedures posted at FB-1
  • Emergency contact numbers posted at exits

Documentation:

  • Log all inspections in safety binder (stored in mechanical room)
  • Note any deficiencies and corrective actions
  • Track extinguisher recharge/replacement dates
  • Maintain training records for all users

Annual Professional Inspection

  • Licensed fire extinguisher service inspects, tests, and tags all ABC and AVD extinguishers
  • Hydrotest ABC units per NFPA 10 schedule (typically 6-12 years)
  • Replace smoke/CO alarm backup batteries
  • Review fire safety plan for changes (new equipment, layout changes, personnel changes)
  • Update emergency contact list
  • Conduct fire drill with all regular users

Location Labeling System

  • FE-[#]: ABC fire extinguisher, main floor (FE-1 through FE-6)
  • FE-L[#]: ABC fire extinguisher, loft (FE-L1, FE-L2)
  • LB-[#]: Lithium battery fire station (LB-1, LB-2)
  • FB-[#]: Fire blanket station (FB-1, FB-2)

Each location marked with:

  1. Photoluminescent “FIRE EXTINGUISHER” sign (visible in dark/smoke)
  2. Location ID tag on bracket (e.g., “FE-1: Mechanical Room”)
  3. PASS method instruction card
  4. Inspection tag with last service date

Integration with Other Safety Systems

  • Extinguisher locations included on visitor safety briefing (content/Manuals/Main Floor Visitor Safety Sign.md)
  • Full procedures documented in main safety manual (content/Manuals/Main Floor Safety Manual.md)
  • Emergency contacts synchronized with generator operation procedures (20-Design/Interior/Backup Generator Plan.md)
  • Fire safety equipment noted in construction phase heating plan (20-Design/Interior/Temporary Heating (Winter 2025-26).md)
  • Electrical fire risks cross-referenced with electrical planning (20-Design/Interior/Electrical Planning.md)

Visitor and Contractor Briefing

Before allowing access, brief all visitors/contractors on:

  1. Location of nearest fire extinguisher and exit
  2. Fire alarm sound (if installed)
  3. Evacuation route and meeting point
  4. No smoking policy (especially near diesel heaters and fuel storage)
  5. Report any fire safety concerns immediately
  6. Do not block extinguishers or exits with equipment/materials

For contractors performing hot work:

  • Review welding fire watch procedures
  • Verify fire extinguisher and blanket accessible
  • Obtain hot work permit if required by insurance
  • Coordinate with property owner before starting work
  • Provide own fire watch if working alone

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