Fire Extinguisher Types: Protecting Your Business

With so many different types of fire extinguishers available, it can be difficult to know which one you need. That is why it’s important to choose a trusted company who are experts in fire protection to help ensure you have the right fire extinguishers for your business.

Fire Risk Assessments

When determining theappropriate fire extinguisher types for your office, it’s important to comply with fire safety regulations. For this, a thorough Fire Risk Assessment should be carried out to outline your specific fire safety equipment needs. This assessment details the different type, quantity, and location of the required fire safety equipment, as well as the last date of service for each of the items.

Types of Fire Extinguisher and Applications:

There are several types of fire extinguishers, all of which provide a different application and purpose.

Water fire extinguishers

Water fire extinguishers utilise water as the main extinguishing agent. They are suitable for Class A fires involving ordinary combustibles. Water fire extinguishers should not be used for electrical or flammable liquid fires. It is important that proper use and limitations must be understood to achieve effective fire safety.

Foam fire extinguishers

Foam fire extinguishers utilise foam to put out fires caused by flammable liquids. Applications include commercial, industrial, home, and vehicle settings. Foam fire extinguishers should be properly maintained and inspected by professionals to ensure they are ready to be used in case of a fire emergency.

CO2 fire extinguishers

CO2 fire extinguishers utilise carbon dioxide to extinguish fires. They are often used in areas with electrical or flammable liquid fires. CO2 fire extinguishers do not leave residue or damage electrical equipment but it is important that they are used carefully as they can cause suffocation in areas which are poorly ventilated.

Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers

Wet chemical fire extinguishers can be used to put out fires involving cooking oils and fats. They work by creating a soap-like substance that helps to smother the flames. They are an important part of fire safety, and you will find this type of fire extinguisher most commonly in commercial kitchens.

Dry powder fire extinguishers

Dry powder fire extinguishers are used to put out fires caused by flammable liquids, gases, and electrical equipment. They utilise a dry chemical powder. They can create a harmful powder cloud and damage sensitive equipment. Proper safety procedures must be followed, and the appropriate type of extinguisher used for the specific type of fire.

Specialist dry powder extinguishers are utilised for extinguishing fires caused by flammable metals such as titanium.

Fire Extinguisher Labelling

Fire extinguishers are colour-coded to help with quick identification. These colours include red (water), blue (dry powder), cream (foam), black (CO2), and yellow (wet chemical).

Protecting Your Business

Here at Fire Care Security and Electrical, we not only install fire extinguishers, but also provide signs that give more details on which types of fires the equipment is appropriate for.

Our team of highly skilled fire extinguisher engineers are committed to providing you with the correct types and quantities of fire extinguishers you need for your business to help you meet regulatory requirements and safeguard your employees and property.

Contact us today to learn how we can help support you with all your fire safety needs.