What Type of Fire Extinguisher Do I Need?

Fire extinguishers provide the first line of defense and controlling flames before they turn into an uncontrollable, destructive or deadly blaze.  They are a critical component of any fire prevention system but battling a fire with the wrong type of extinguisher could be completely ineffective and a dire mistake. Know exactly what type of fire extinguisher you need for the type of fires that could erupt in your building or on your property based on a thorough risk analysis.

A knowledgeable fire and safety systems provider can help in your risk analysis and determination of the correct type of extinguishers needed, and the proper locations according to code requirements.

Classes of Fires

The various types of fires are referred to as classes and are as follows:

·         Class A fires erupting from ordinary combustibles such as paper, cloth, wood, rubber and many plastics are labeled as class A fires.

·         Class B fires include flammable liquids such as oil, gasoline, oil-based paints, petroleum greases, alcohol, solvents, and flammable gases such as butane and propane. Class B fires do not include fires from cooking grease and oils.

·         Class C fires involve energized electrical equipment such as motors, transformers, appliances, and computers.

·         Class D fires include combustible metals such as lithium, titanium, zirconium, magnesium, sodium and potassium.

·         Class K fires referred to fires starting from hot grease or oil in a commercial kitchen setting

Types of Extinguishers for the Different Classes of Fires

• Dry Chemical fire extinguishers are the most widely used type of portable extinguisher found in businesses and public places, and is effective on Class A, B and C fires. The dry chemical extinguisher is effective by creating a barrier between the fuel elements and oxygen. Be sure your dry chemical extinguisher is rated for class A, B and C, as some ordinary dry chemical extinguishers are effective on only class B and C fires.
• Water and Foam extinguishers are effective on Class A fires only and will not be effective and should not be used on Class B or C fires.
• Carbon Dioxide extinguishers work by removing the oxygen elements and also removing the heat with an extremely cold discharge. I went outside extinguishers are effective and can only be used on Class B and C fires and are ineffective on Class A fires.
• Dry Powder fire extinguishers should be used for Class D combustible model fires only and will be ineffective on all other classes of fire.
• Wet Chemical fire extinguishers are typically used in commercial cooking facilities and kitchens were deep fat fryers are used. These are effective by removing the heat in creating a barrier between the fuel and oxygen elements.

It is vitally important to use the correct type of fire extinguisher for the class of fire creating potential risk. Contact an experienced and knowledgeable fire and safety systems expert for the proper type of extinguisher and correct placement to meet all code regulations.

High-rise security systems is and experienced and knowledgeable fire and safety system design, integration and consulting firm offering high-performing, reliable equipment and monitoring 24/7/365. We are knowledgeable on all classes of fires and proper portable extinguisher placement. Contact us today to speak with a fire detection and prevention specialist experienced in all commercial applications.