It’s a smart idea to keep a fire extinguisher in your home and at your business. These are great tools for putting out common household fires. In many states, it’s the law to keep a fire extinguisher in the home or at your business.
You may be wondering about different types of fire extinguishers and what they’re used for. Read on to find out about fire extinguisher classes and which are best for your particular use.
Are there different fire extinguishers?
There are several different types of fire extinguishers. Before you get started, you’ll want to evaluate which rooms will need fire extinguishers. Places you’ll definitely want to keep fire extinguishers are kitchens, garages, areas with fireplaces and anywhere else where a fire is more likely to spread.
Let’s go over the four different classes of fire extinguisher:
- Class A is used to extinguish fires of typical combustible elements like paper or wood
- Class B is used to extinguish blazes started by flammable liquids like gasoline
- Class C is used to extinguish electrical fires
- Class D is used to extinguish fires on flammable metals like titanium or sodium
- Class K is used to extinguish blazes related to animal or vegetable oils or fats
Types of fire extinguishers
Beyond these different classes, there are six main types of fire extinguishers:
- Powder fire extinguisher: This is a multipurpose fire extinguisher and is one of the most common. It sprays a fine chemical powder that effectively blankets and suffocates the fire. These are best used for Class A, B and C fires.
- Foam fire extinguisher: Choose this extinguisher for Class A and B fires. The foam blankets the fire and starves it of fuel. The foam is mixed with water for a cooling effect.
- Wet chemical fire extinguisher: For specialized use on Class K fires, a wet chemical extinguisher is the best choice. It sprays a liquid mist that first cools the fire and then creates a seal to prevent reignition.
- Clean agent fire extinguisher: This uses gaseous fire suppression to get the job done. It’s stored in liquid form, but when sprayed into the air, it converts into gas. It leaves no residue and is an eco-friendly choice.
- CO2 fire extinguisher: For faster cleanup, choose a CO2 This removes oxygen to suffocate the fire and is perfect for use on Class B blazes.
- Water mist fire extinguisher: This is a versatile extinguisher that utilizes new technology, creating microscopic water molecules to fight fire on various levels. The deionized water can be used on electrical fires, as it does not act as a conductor. Water mist is best for Class A, B, C and K fires.
Do you want more information on how to bolster fire safety at your home or business? Carpet Capital Fire Protection Inc. has been a leader in the fire extinguisher industry for more than four decades. Rely on our experience to provide you with fire extinguisher equipment that works exactly when you need it. Give us a call today.