What are the 5 types of fire extinguishers?

Fire safety is paramount, and one essential tool in any fire emergency preparedness kit is a fire extinguisher. Having the right fire extinguisher can be the difference between a minor incident and a major disaster. There are different types of fire extinguishers designed to combat various classes of fire, and understanding these differences ensures you have the right tools on hand to effectively handle any potential fire hazards.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the different types of fire extinguishers, their classifications, and proper usage so you can have the best understanding of these aspects, which is essential for anyone responsible for fire safety.

What are the different fire classes in the UK?

Before we explore the different types of fire extinguishers, it’s crucial to understand the UK’s fire classification system. This system categorises fires based on the fuel source, making it easier to choose the most effective extinguisher. These fire classes also help ensure you use the correct fire extinguisher for the specific type of fire, maximising effectiveness and safety. Here are the five main types of fire classes:

Class A: Combustible materials

A Class A fire involves ordinary combustible materials like wood, paper, cloth, and plastics. The heat from these fires breaks down the material, releasing flammable gases that fuel the flames. Water fire extinguishers are most effective against Class A fires as they cool the burning material and extinguish the flames. Using the wrong type of extinguisher, like a CO2 extinguisher, can be ineffective and may even spread the fire. Therefore, understanding the specific requirements of Class A fires is important for efficient fire control.

Class B: Flammable liquids

Class B fires are caused by flammable liquids like petrol, oil, paint, and alcohol. These liquids burn rapidly and can be difficult to extinguish. Foam fire extinguishers are the ideal choice for Class B fires as they create a barrier between the fuel and the oxygen, suppressing the flames. While water extinguishers may seem like a good idea, they can spread the fire by causing the flammable liquid to splash. This makes it vital to select an extinguisher specifically designed for flammable liquids.

Class C: Flammable gases

Class C fires involve flammable gases such as propane, butane, and natural gas. These fires are hazardous due to the risk of explosion and the potential for rapid fire spread. Dry powder fire extinguishers are highly effective against Class C fires as they interrupt the chemical reaction of the fire, stopping it from spreading. It’s crucial to avoid using water-based extinguishers for Class C fires, as they can worsen the situation.

Class D: Flammable metals

A Class D fire centres around flammable metals such as magnesium, titanium, and potassium. These fires require specialised dry powder extinguishers designed to handle the specific properties of burning metals. These specialised extinguishers work by smothering the fire and absorbing the heat, preventing re-ignition. Due to their specialised nature, Class D extinguishers are commonly found in industrial settings where flammable metals are present.

Class F: Involving cooking oils and fats

Class F fires are types of fires that involve cooking oils and fat, which are commonly found in commercial kitchens. These fires can be particularly dangerous due to the high temperatures at which cooking oils ignite and the rapid spread they can cause. The most appropriate type of fire extinguisher for these fires are wet chemical extinguishers, which work by cooling the burning oil and forming a barrier between the fuel and oxygen, effectively smothering the flames.

What are the 5 types of fire extinguishers?

Now that you have a better understanding of the different fire classes, let’s explore the five main types of fire extinguishers and their uses. Each type is colour-coded for easy identification and are designed to handle specific fire classes. Selecting the appropriate type is critical to fire safety and using the wrong type can be ineffective and potentially dangerous.

Water fire extinguishers for Class A fires

Recognisable by their red label, water fire extinguishers are the most common type. They work by cooling the burning material below its ignition temperature. Water extinguishers are highly effective against Class A fires involving solid combustibles, but they should never be used on electrical fires or flammable liquid fires. These extinguishers are environmentally friendly, generally the most affordable option, and most typically found in homes, offices, and schools.

Foam fire extinguishers for Class A and B fires

Foam fire extinguishers, identified by their cream label, are suitable for Class A and B fires. They extinguish fires by smothering the flames and preventing re-ignition by creating a barrier between the fuel and the oxygen. Their cooling effect also helps to reduce the fire’s intensity too. They’re commonly found in garages, workshops, and areas where flammable liquids are stored.

CO2 fire extinguishers for electrical fires

CO2 fire extinguishers are known for their distinctive black label and are the preferred choice for tackling electrical fires. They work by displacing oxygen, effectively suffocating the fire. CO2 extinguishers are safe to use on electrical equipment as they don’t leave any residue, reducing the risk of further damage. These types of extinguishers are particularly beneficial in environments with sensitive electronic equipment, such as server rooms and computer labs. It’s key to remember to use them in well-ventilated areas to avoid the risk of asphyxiation.

Dry powder fire extinguishers for Class A, B, C, and D fires

Dry powder fire extinguishers are easily identifiable by their blue label. They’re versatile and can be used on Class A, B, C, and D fires. They extinguish fires by separating the fuel from the oxygen, effectively interrupting the chemical reaction necessary for combustion. While highly effective, it’s important to note that dry powder extinguishers can leave residue that may damage sensitive equipment. They’re commonly found in industrial settings where a multi-purpose extinguisher is needed.

Wet chemical fire extinguisher for Class F fires

Wet chemical fire extinguishers are specifically designed for combating Class F fires. Featuring their yellow label, these extinguishers contain a specially formulated agent that cools the flames and creates a barrier between the fuel and oxygen, preventing re-ignition. You’ll often find wet chemical fire extinguishers in cooking and food preparation areas, such as restaurants, professional kitchens, and canteens.

How to properly use a fire extinguisher

Knowing how to use a fire extinguisher correctly is just as important as having one. In an emergency, every second counts, and proper usage can mean the difference between a small, contained fire and a much larger one.

In the first instance, you should always prioritise the safety of the building’s occupants and you should safely evacuate the building before attempting to extinguish a fire. In the event you have to use a fire extinguisher, the PASS technique is a simple and easy-to-remember acronym:

• Pull – pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher to break the tamper seal.
• Aim – aim the extinguisher’s nozzle or hose at the base of the fire, not at the flames themselves.
• Squeeze – squeeze the lever or handle slowly and evenly to discharge the extinguishing agent.
• Sweep – sweep the nozzle from side to side, covering the base of the fire until it is extinguished.

There are some essential safety tips to keep in mind when using a fire extinguisher. For example, you should only attempt to extinguish a fire unless you have been properly trained and the fire is small and contained. Be sure to position yourself between the fire and an escape route so you can easily evacuate the building. Remember to always call the emergency fire services so professionally trained firefighters can help.

Ensuring you and your staff have undergone accredited fire safety training is essential for the proper use of a fire extinguisher as it will instill knowledge and confidence in your staff to respond effectively to a fire.

The importance of maintaining and inspecting a fire extinguisher

Maintaining your fire extinguishers is crucial for ensuring they operate effectively during an emergency. Neglecting maintenance can lead to malfunctions and reduce the lifespan of the extinguisher, which ultimately jeopardises safety. Taking preventative measures by adhering to routine checks and professional inspections can be the difference between a near miss and a potential catastrophe.

It’s recommended to perform a quick visual inspection monthly, checking for:

• Visible damage – looking specifically for any dents, cracks, or corrosion on the extinguisher’s body.
• Pressure gauge reading – ensure the needle is in the green zone, which indicates adequate pressure.
• Tamper seal – check to make sure the tamper seal is intact.
• Cleanliness – wipe away any dust or debris from the extinguisher to ensure maximum effectiveness in the event of a fire.

Regular checks are crucial and it’s important to remember that fire extinguishers also require periodic refilling or replacement to maintain their effectiveness in the long run. Here are key indicators determining when this is necessary:

• After every use, even if only partially discharged, refill or replace the extinguisher to ensure it’s fully charged for future emergencies.
• If the pressure gauge is in the red zone, as this indicates the extinguisher is not adequately charged and requires immediate attention.
• If you notice any signs of damage or corrosion on the extinguisher’s body. This is when it’s vital to replace it, as this kind of damage can compromise its functionality.

What are the legal requirements and standards for using a fire extinguisher?

The UK has specific standards for fire extinguisher usage, ensuring businesses and individuals uphold a certain level of fire safety. These standards serve as a framework to minimise fire risks and outline best practices for fire equipment installation, maintenance, and usage.

All fire safety legislation, including regulations around proper fire-fighting equipment such as fire extinguishers, fall under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. It states that virtually all commercial buildings in England and Wales must provide a portable fire extinguisher where there’s a risk to fire.

The British Standard BS 5306 outlines the selection and positioning of portable fire extinguishers and specifies the requirements for different premises based on their fire risk assessment. This standard helps determine the type, size, and number of extinguishers needed.

It’s crucial for all responsible persons to have a thorough understanding of these requirements and standards, along with their obligations to fire safety within their building which includes conducting fire risk assessments and implementing and maintaining a fire management plan.

Want to learn more about the different types of fire extinguishers?

Having a thorough understanding of the different types of fire extinguishers and their appropriate uses is vital for fire safety preparedness. Knowing the classes of fires and the corresponding extinguisher types can mean the difference between a controlled situation and a potential disaster. This knowledge means you’re contributing to a safer environment for yourself and those around you.

If you’d like to learn more about the different types of fire extinguishers, or you have any questions about other fire safety measures available, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us for more expert guidance and support.