Hand Pump Fire Extinquishers

I have a list of items that I am always searching for, last week I found one.  It is a 2 ½ gallon hand operated fire extinguisher.  Back in the 60’s we used these all the time when I was on a big city fire department.  It was made by General Detroit Corp between 1942 and 1956.  They are all brass and copper.  This one was in good conditioned.

After I purchased it I took it home filled it with water and started to pump to my surprise it worked right away.  I thought I might have had to replace the gaskets in the pump.  These extinguishers are easy to fill and are simple to use.  Just point the nozzle at the base of the flames and pump.

While 2 ½ gallons of water may not seen like a lot, it often doesn’t take a lot of water to keep a small fire from becoming a big one.  One in good condition will put out a stream of water about 15 feet long.

handpump in operation

If you have to light your home with candles or maybe cook in the back yard with a campfire, having one of these extinguishers handy may keep you from having a major fire.  I also have several dry powder extinguishers, however this has an advantage over them, I can refill it.

Howard

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3 thoughts on “Hand Pump Fire Extinquishers”

  1. What can be safely added to the water to mitigate against freezing, which is nontoxic, without impairing fire supression qualities?

  2. Most motor home or marine suppliers carry non toxic anti freeze for use in potable water systems. Use the smallest amount possible.
    Howard

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