Type of Fire Extinguisher
ABC POWDER
AFF FOAM
CARBON DIOXIDE
WATER
WATER MIST
WET CHEMICAL
Fire Classification
Fire Extinguisher Suitability
Powder fire extinguishers: ideal for use in mixed-risk environments and offer excellent all-around fire protection.
Foam fire extinguishers are excellent for use on fire involving solid, flammable materials and are very efficient on liquid fires.
CO2 fire extinguishers: suitable for use on flammable liquid fires and are remarkably efficient at extinguishing a fire involving electrical equipment.
Water fire extinguishers can be used in situations where is needed to contain solid, flammable materials such as textiles, wood or paper.
Water mists extinguishers are perfect for covering building spaces where multiple fire risks can be found.
The perfect solution for tackling large burning oil fires comes from wet chemical extinguishers, also ideally suited to the kitchen environment.
- 1. Powder Extinguisher Recommended for Class A, B and C fires
- 2. Foam extinguishers Recommended for Class A and B fires
- 3. CO2 Extinguishers Recommended for Class B fires & safe for electrical equipment.
- 4. Water Extinguishers Recommended for Class A fires
1. Powder Extinguishers
Powder extinguishers are often called multi-purpose given their usability on Class A, B, and C types of fires. Powder extinguishers can also be used to put down fires involving electrical equipment. However, powder extinguishers do not cool down the fire.
Therefore, there is always a chance of re-igniting. Powder extinguishers can also create a loss of visibility and breathing problems therefore not recommended for inside buildings unless there is no alternative.
2. Foam Extinguishers
Foam extinguishers are designed for Class A and B type of fire. Most suited to extinguishing liquid fires, foam fire extinguishers are more versatile than conventional water jet extinguishers and can be used in any kind of solids including wood and paper.
The foam suffocates the fire by sealing the surface of the liquid, preventing combustible vapour entering the air.
3. CO2 Extinguishers
Ideal for areas with electrical devices such as offices or server rooms as it operates by suppressing the fire and cutting off the air. Moreover, carbon dioxide extinguishers do not leave any debris, unlike a foam extinguisher.
CO2 extinguishers can also be used on Class B fires, such as flammable liquids, paraffin or petrol.
4. Water Extinguishers
Water extinguishers are the most cost-effective ways to fight Class A fires and those fuelled by thick materials such as textile or paper.
There are four types of water extinguishers: water with additives, water jet, water spray, and water mist or fog.
