Use the Right Fire Extinguisher for Different Classes of Fires

Fire extinguishers are a critical part of any fire and safety system, preventing a fire from becoming uncontrollable and destructive.  It is important to know which type of fire extinguisher to use for the different classes of fires.  A professional fire and safety system company with experience in portable fire extinguishers can provide guidance on the right type of extinguisher for your building.

Fires are classified as either class A, B, C, D or K and require the right type of extinguisher to effectively extinguish the fire.  The various classes are defined as:

Class A fires - erupt from ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, cloth, plastics and rubbers.
Class B fires - include fires erupting from flammable liquids such as oil-based paints, oil, petroleum greases, gasoline, flammable gases, propane, alcohol and solvents with the exception of fires caused from cooking grease and oils.
Class C fires – involve fires from energized electrical equipment such as appliances, computers, motors and transformers.
Class D fires – describe fires erupting from combustible metals such as magnesium, lithium, zirconium, sodium, titanium and potassium.
Class K fires – refer to fires starting from hot oil or grease from a commercial kitchen or restaurant.

Use the Right Extinguishers for the Different Classes of Fires
 
The most common fire extinguishers are dry chemical and are effective on Class A, B or C fires. Water and foam fire extinguishers are effective on class A fires only and should not be used on class B or C fires.  Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers are only effective on class B and C fires and will not work on class A fires.

Dry powder fire extinguishers are recommended for Class D combustible metal fires only and wet chemical fire extinguishers should be used for commercial kitchens using deep fat fryers.

High-rise security systems is an experienced and knowledgeable fire and safety system design, integration and consulting firm.  We offer high-performing, reliable equipment, service, maintenance, repairs and monitoring 24/7/365. We are knowledgeable on all classes of fires and proper portable fire extinguisher maintenance.

Chicago High Rise Fire Extinguisher Inspection Checklist

Commercial properties of all types including high rise buildings in big cities like Chicago require an experienced fire and safety company to ensure code compliant fire protection.  Fire extinguishers provide a critical first line of defense against fires becoming out of control causing devastating losses.  Maintaining functioning portable fire extinguishers in commercial properties is required and outlined in NFPA 10, the guidelines established by the National Fire Protection Association.

High-Rise Security Systems Offers Experienced Fire Extinguisher Service
 
High Rise Security Systems offers professional fire extinguisher services licensed in the state of Illinois and experienced with complex commercial properties.  We ensure code compliant fire and safety systems with fire alarm and extinguisher services which adhere to all local, federal and jurisdictional regulations.  Our licensed technicians provide detailed fire extinguisher inspections to provide total, code compliant protection.

Our detailed fire extinguisher checklist includes the following services:

• We provide an experienced visual inspection of the portable unit verifying there is no corrosion or rust present
• Making sure the safety pin is undamaged and in place
• We ensure that the unit is mounted properly in a location which is easily accessible
• Checking the pressure gauge which must be completely pressurized without pointing to recharge
• Visual inspection of the nozzle and discharge hose which must not have any cracks
• Checking for smooth operation of the handle and lever
• All fire extinguishers require that the inspection provider check the manufacture date as addition service is required at 6 years and 12 years after manufacture date
• We perform hydrostatic testing as required
• Properly identify the extinguisher service on the maintenance tags as required 

High Rise Security Systems is licensed in the State of Illinois and experienced in the most complex fire alarm systems required of high rise commercial properties.  We design code compliant fire alarm systems including all required portable fire extinguisher services. Our trained technicians are knowledgeable of all local, state and federal fire alarm code requirements including NFPA 10 which outlines fire extinguisher requirements.

High Rise Security Systems is a recognized leading fire and safety systems expert, often called upon for our consultation in the design and integration of code compliant fire alarm systems. Contact us today to learn more about our comprehensive fire and safety services including fire extinguisher inspections.

Professional Fire Extinguisher Service in Chicago

Fire extinguishers provide the first line of defense against raging fires erupting and causing catastrophic losses.  Big cities with many commercial properties require companies to adhere to national and local regulations, including maintaining their portable fire extinguishers to the guidelines established by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).  Commercial property and business owners must rely upon the expertise of fire and safety companies to provide code compliant, fire extinguisher service.

Service for All Types of Fire Extinguishers

An experienced fire extinguisher service company will have the knowledge to perform the required maintenance and services to all types of fire extinguishers.  Fire extinguishers are required to be rated to extinguish either Class A, B, C, D or K types of fires.  Most public places and commercial properties have an extinguisher that is rated for either A, B or C fires.  This multipurpose, dry chemical extinguisher works by interrupting the chemical reaction happening in the fire.

Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers are rated to be effective only on class B or C fires and will not be effective for class A fires.  NFPA 12 details the guidelines for the use and maintenance of carbon dioxide fire extinguishers. Class D fire extinguishers are effective by removing the oxygen from the fuel source in class D fires and are ineffective on any other type of fire.

Class K fires require a wet chemical fire extinguisher, which is effective on hot grease or oil fires commonly required in restaurants and kitchens.  NFPA 17A outlines the requirements of using wet chemical extinguishers. NFPA 10 provides the overall guidelines for all portable fire extinguishers which commercial properties must adhere to.

When looking for professional fire extinguisher service in Chicago, contact the experienced fire and safety specialists at High Rise Security Systems.

High Rise Security Systems, HRSS, is a leading fire and safety system specialist offering licensed fire extinguisher services in the state of Illinois. We offer comprehensive fire and safety services including maintenance, service, repair, system design and monitoring 24/7/365. Contact us today to speak with a knowledgeable technician for help with your fire extinguisher maintenance plan.