Fire Extinguisher | all rounded guide:
Fire extinguishers are essential safety tools that every home, office, and commercial space should have.
They are the first line of defense when it comes to controlling small fires before they escalate into larger, more dangerous blazes which can cause damage to not only yourself, but properties also.
But with so many types of fire extinguishers available, how do you know which one is right for your specific needs?
We understand the confusing world of fire extinguishers, so in this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about fire extinguishers, including their types, how to use them, how to ensure they remain in working order, and other helpful tips and best practices.
What is a Fire Extinguisher?
A fire extinguisher is a portable device used to put out fires. It works by expelling a substance that can extinguish or suppress the fire, depending on the type of fire and extinguisher.
This is backed up by the Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica who state:
“A fire extinguisher is a portable or movable apparatus used to put out a small fire by directing onto it a substance that cools the burning material, deprives the flame of oxygen, or interferes with the chemical reactions occurring in the flame.”
When it comes to fire extinguishers, there is no “one size fits all”. There are several different types of fire extinguishers, each designed to handle specific types of fires.
From personal experience with our engineers here, We find it very useful to ensure they are fully trained to handle and service fire extinguishers so we can adder to British Standards.
We recommend participating in the fire extinguisher courses offered by the FPA (Fire Protection Association).
Please note these courses do not need to be taken to be able to use an extinguisher.
Ensuring the use of the right extinguisher for a given fire, it is important to understand the various classes and types of fire extinguishers.
What Are the Types of Fire Extinguishers?
Fire extinguishers are categorised by their class and the types of fires they can handle.
We advise understanding the different classes of fire extinguishers as well-trained individuals can quickly suppress and extinguish fires during the incipient stage, protecting both life and property.
Here's a breakdown of the most common types:
- Class A: For ordinary combustibles such as paper, wood, and textiles.
- Class B: For flammable liquids such as oil, gasoline, and paints.
- Class C: For electrical fires, caused by equipment such as wiring, computers, and appliances.
- Class D: For combustible metals like magnesium and titanium.
- Class K: For cooking oils, fats, and grease.
How Does a Fire Extinguisher Work?
A fire extinguisher works by interrupting the chemical reaction that fuels the fire.
Similarly to what was stated earlier, each class of fire extinguisher will cause a different reaction to help stop the fire.
There are different methods depending on the type of extinguisher:
- Water Fire Extinguishers: These are typically used for Class A fires (wood, paper, textiles) and work by cooling the flames.
- Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers: Suitable for Class A, B, and C fires. They work by forming a barrier between the fuel and oxygen.
- CO2 Fire Extinguishers: Often used for electrical fires (Class C), CO2 extinguishers work by displacing the oxygen and suffocating the fire.
- Foam Fire Extinguishers: Used for Class B and some Class A fires, they work by forming a blanket of foam that smothers the flames.
To understand the function of different fire extinguishers, check out our How Does Foam Fire Extinguisher Work post.
Choosing the Right Fire Extinguisher
When selecting a fire extinguisher, we can't stress enough how crucial it is to choose the right one for your environment and the types of fires you might face.
Here’s some pointers for choosing the appropriate extinguisher for specific scenarios:
Fire Extinguisher for Electrical Fires:
For electrical fires, you’ll need a fire extinguisher that won’t conduct electricity.
CO2 fire extinguishers are the best choice because they are non-conductive and effective at suppressing electrical fires without leaving residue.
From personal experience, it is vital to address electrical fires with caution and the correct amount of knowledge to ensure you are safe within the environment.
As reported by Vytenis Babrauskas, a professional in the fire science and technology realm:
“Electrical fires pose significant dangers due to the unique mechanisms leading to their ignition. Unlike other structural fires, electrical fires are directly caused by the flow of electric current or static electricity.”
To prevent electrical fires, we recommend that you:
| Safety Measure | Description |
|---|---|
| Certified Devices | Only purchase electrical appliances, cords, and outlets with certifications like UL or CE. |
| Avoid Overloading | Never overload power outlets or circuits with too many devices. |
| Use Proper Fuses and Breakers | Ensure your electrical panel has the correct fuse sizes or circuit breakers for the wiring. |
| Unplug Devices | Turn off and unplug devices when not in use, especially heating appliances. |
| Avoid Extension Cords | Use them sparingly and never as a permanent solution for powering devices. |
| Space Heaters | Keep flammable objects at least 3 feet away from heaters and avoid plugging them into extension cords. |
You can contact us on 0330 056 3094 or email us at sales@firetradesupplies.com for more information regarding how to prevent/contain electrical fires.
Fire Extinguisher for Oil Fires/Flammable Liquids:
Oil fires require a specific extinguisher.
We recommend using Class B fire extinguishers (AFFF Foam). These extinguishers are specifically designed to handle liquid fires, preventing them from spreading.
It is important to remember that suppression methods such as water can make oil based fires more dangerous.
Fire Extinguisher for Cooking Oil/Use in Kitchens:
Cooking oil fires, which are common in kitchens, require wet chemical fire extinguishers.
These extinguishers are specially designed to handle high-temperature oil & fat fires. For more information, check our blog post What Fire Extinguisher for Cooking Oil.
Statistically, according to NFPA (The National Fire Protection Association), hospitality establishments are where the majority of oil/fat-based fires occur, especially within the kitchen. Extinguishers labeled Class K are made specifically to extinguish these types of fires & should be the only ones used.
How to Use a Fire Extinguisher
Knowing how to properly use a fire extinguisher can save lives & we advise everyone to have an understanding on this as.
Following these four steps can help assist you in case of putting out a fire:
- Pull the Pin: This breaks the tamper seal and allows you to discharge the extinguisher.
- Aim at the Base of the Fire: Always aim the nozzle at the base of the flames, not at the top.
- Squeeze the Handle: Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent.
- Sweep from Side to Side: Move the nozzle in a sweeping motion to cover the entire fire.
Below is a more clear and concise detailed overview on how operate each class of fire alarm extinguisher:
From personal experience we recommended following this link to the Fire Protection Association website. Here you can find a detailed description which goes in to depth on each class of fire extinguishers.
How to Dispose of a Fire Extinguisher
Once a fire extinguisher has been used, or when it expires, it’s important to dispose of it properly.
Depending on the type, fire extinguishers can be recycled or refilled.
CO2 fire extinguishers, for example, can be refilled, while others may need to be disposed of at a hazardous waste facility.
!Important Information - It has been recently updated in September 2024 that any foams products containing persistent organic pollutants should be disposed of through high-temperature incineration and must never be released into the sewer system.!
Sites using this RPS are required to notify the Environment Agency via email and apply for an environmental permit by September 2024.
More about what to do with foam extinguishers can be found following the link to to GOV website, or alternatively please see reading list at the end.!
Bellow from past experiences we have create a quick best practice for disposal of fire extinguishers - remember if you're not certain please contact a professional:
| Best Practice | Action |
|---|---|
| Contact Local Authorities | Reach out to local waste management services or fire departments to inquire about proper disposal methods for fire extinguishers in your area. |
| Avoid Regular Trash | Do not dispose of fire extinguishers in regular household trash due to potential hazards. |
| Professional Handling | Utilize professional services equipped to handle and recycle fire extinguishers safely. |
| Check for Residue | If the extinguisher has been used, ensure it is empty before disposal. If it contains hazardous materials, follow appropriate hazardous waste disposal procedures. |
Regular Servicing of Fire Extinguishers:
It’s essential to have your fire extinguishers serviced regularly.
The general recommendation is to have them checked annually by a professional, for example here at Fire Trade Supplies we use Sunfish Services to maintain our fir alarm system and extinguishers.
We cant recommend enough to use a trusted company to ensure they are still fully functional and safe to use.
It is Reported by the Sec of fire resistant engineering that
"Neglecting regular maintenance of fire extinguishers can lead to significant safety hazards."
A study published in the journal Frontiers in Built Environment emphasis's that inadequate maintenance of fire safety equipment, including fire extinguishers, increases the risk of fire incidents in workplace facilities.
The research highlights that poor maintenance practices can result in equipment failure during emergencies, thereby compromising the safety of occupants and property. illustrating the importance of regular fire extinguisher servicing.
Where to Buy Fire Extinguishers
If you’re looking to purchase any class of fire extinguishers, you can get in contact with us either via our website Fire Trade Supplies, or can email us directly on sales@firetradesupplies.com. Whether you need a CO2 fire extinguisher or a class A fire extinguisher, we have you covered with competitive prices and expert advice.
Conclusion
Fire extinguishers are vital safety tools that everyone should be familiar with. we highly recommend understanding the different types and how they work can make a life-saving difference in an emergency.
Whether you need a fire extinguisher for electrical fires, oil fires, or cooking, selecting the correct one is key to ensuring safety.
At Fire Trade Supplies, we are committed to providing high-quality products and expert advice to help keep you safe. Make sure your fire extinguishers are in good working order and serviced regularly to ensure they are ready to use when you need them the most.
Stay safe & stay prepared
Extended Reading:
Fire Safety Risk Assessment of Workplace Facilities: A Case Study
Fire Extinguisher Information -NFPA
Choosing and using fire extinguishers
Fire protection - maintenance of portable fire extinguishers