A Guide To The Different Types Of Fire Extinguishers

No one can deny the importance of fire extinguishers in the present world. They are known for saving the lives of people and also help in preventing the damage to the property.  Because of their immense demand, the manufacturers have introduced various types of fire extinguishers in the market and each is used for a different situation. The common types are listed below:

1. Water and foam fire extinguishers

These types of fire extinguishers are very popular these days. The best part about them is that they tend to take away the element of ‘heat’ from the fire triangle. The foam agents are known for separating the oxygen element from the rest. The experts are of the view that water extinguishers should only be used for Class A fires. There is absolutely no need to use them on Class B and C fires. The primary reason behind this is that the discharge stream can easily spread the flammable liquid in a Class B fire. Similarly under Class C fires, they can easily create a shock hazard.

2. Dry chemical fire extinguishers



These types of extinguishers control the fire by simply disrupting the chemical reaction of the fire triangle. The best part about multipurpose dry chemical fire extinguishers is that they can easily be used on Class A, Class B and Class C fires and are highly effective as well. The experts believe that the in case of Class A fire, dry chemical extinguishers tend to create a barrier between the fuel element and the oxygen element. On the other hand, the ordinary dry chemical fire extinguishers can only be used for controlling Class B and C fires only.

It is highly important that you use the right type of fire extinguisher for the specific type of fuel. If ignored, you will see the fire being re-ignited after being extinguished.

3. Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers

There is a very cold discharge from the carbon dioxide fire extinguisher when used to control fire. It not only removes the heat element from the fire but also takes away the oxygen element from the fire triangle. It is important to note that Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers cannot be used on Class A fires but are very much effective when used on Class B and C fires.

4. Wet chemical fire extinguishers

These types of extinguishers have recently been introduced in the market and can remove the heat element from the fire triangle. Furthermore, it also assists in preventing the re-ignition of the fire by creating a strong barrier between fuel and the oxygen. There are times when these extinguishers are used in commercial kitchens during a Class A fire.

5. Clean agent extinguishers

They are also known as halogenated extinguishers because they have halogen agents in them. The best part about them is that they are less hazardous to the ozone layer. They work by disturbing the overall chemical reaction of the fire triangle. They are ideal and highly effective for Class B and C fires. However, there are times when they are also used on Class A fires as well.

6. Dry powder extinguishers

There is not much difference in the dry chemical extinguishers and the dry powder extinguishers. The only difference is that the dry powder extinguishers tend to separate the fuel from the oxygen and also removes the heat element from the fire triangle. It must be emphasised here that the dry powder extinguishers are meant for either combustible metal fires or for Class D fires. For other classes of fires, they are completely ineffective.

7. Water mist extinguishers

These extinguishers have recently been developed and are meant to be used on Class A fires. Some people also believe that they can easily be used on Class C fires as well.