What Type of Fire Extinguisher Should I Use?

When it comes to fire safety, choosing the right fire extinguisher is critical to ensuring effective protection in the event of an emergency. Not all fires are the same, and different extinguishers are designed to tackle specific types of fires. Here's a quick guide to help you decide which fire extinguisher is right for your business or home.

1. Water Fire Extinguishers

Best For: Fires involving wood, paper, textiles, and other organic materials (Class A fires).

Avoid: Electrical equipment and flammable liquids.

Water extinguishers are one of the most commonly used types and are effective on solid combustibles like wood and paper. They work by cooling the flames, removing heat from the fire.

2. Foam Extinguishers

 Best For: Class A fires (wood, paper, and textiles) and Class B fires (flammable liquids like petrol).

 Avoid: Electrical fires.

Foam extinguishers are versatile, as they cover the fire surface and smother the flames. They are especially useful in environments where flammable liquids may be present, such as warehouses or garages.

3. CO2 Extinguishers

 Best For: Electrical fires and Class B fires.

CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) extinguishers are designed to deal with electrical fires by displacing the oxygen around the fire, cutting off its oxygen supply. They leave no residue, making them ideal for areas with sensitive electronic equipment, such as offices and server rooms.

4. Dry Powder Extinguishers

Best For: Class A, B, C fires, and electrical fires.

Dry powder extinguishers are multi-purpose, making them suitable for environments where multiple types of fire risks exist. However, they can be messy, as the powder can cause visibility issues or damage equipment.

5. Wet Chemical Extinguishers

Best For: Class F fires, particularly cooking oils and fats.

Specifically designed for kitchens, wet chemical extinguishers are the best choice when dealing with fires involving deep-fat fryers or other high-temperature cooking oils.

Choosing the correct fire extinguisher depends on the specific risks in your environment. A thorough fire risk assessment will help determine which extinguishers you need and where they should be placed. For professional advice on selecting and maintaining fire extinguishers, contact us at First Rate Fire Protection, where our experts are ready to help.