Comparing Fire Extinguisher Types

What Are Fire Extinguishers?

Everyone knows that a fire extinguisher is used to put out fires. However, what you may not know is that there are many different types of fires, otherwise known as classes. As a result, there are also many different types of fire extinguishers, specifically designed to deal with these certain types of fires. Here at Fire Protection Services, we are going to compare the different types of fire extinguishers and explain how they can be used effectively.

Fire Extinguisher Types

Water Extinguishers

Water extinguishers are a type of fire extinguisher used on Class A fires, a type of fire that is caused when materials such as paper, wood, straw, etc combust. The water extinguisher works by being sprayed on the fire in order to cool the temperature, stop the burning and ensure that it doesn’t spread further. An added benefit of water fire extinguishers is that they have no adverse impact on the environment.

Foam Extinguishers

When compared to water extinguishers, foam extinguishers have a greater range of use as they are effective against Class A and B fires. Class B fires are the result of substances such as petrol, fats and tar catching alight. A Foam fire extinguisher contains AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam) as well as water. This allows not only the fire to be cooled, but also flammable vapours to be smothered so they don’t reignite.

CO2 Extinguishers

In the event of flammable liquids or electrical items combusting (Class B Fires), CO2 extinguishers are the most effective solution. They are ideal for areas such as offices and workspaces as they cause no damage to electrics whilst putting out the fire. These extinguishers work by releasing carbon dioxide gas which works to replace the oxygen around the fire, meaning that it can no longer burn.

Powder Extinguishers

Dry powder extinguishers are great for a variety of situations as they cover Class A, B and C fires. The burning of flammable gases such as propane and methane can result in Class C fires. Dry powder fire extinguishers put out fires by creating a barrier between the fuel and the oxygen source of the fire, stopping it from burning. These extinguishers are particularly useful for outdoor fires, due to the speed in which they take effect.

Wet Chemical Extinguishers

One of the newer types of fire extinguishers, wet chemical extinguishers are extremely effective in working against fires involving deep fat fryers. Once the solution within the fire extinguisher is released, it starts to emulsify and cool the burning liquid. The solution then seals the surface to guard against reignition.

Contact Us

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog, we hope you found it informative. If you would like to find out more or enquire about purchasing any of the fire extinguishers mentioned above, please feel free to contact us today. We hope to hear from you soon.