Fire extinguishers have been made to tackle different types of fires. This is because there are six different classes of fires. Therefore, you should have the idea that not a single fire extinguisher works for all types of fires. To secure the safety of your family and your workers, always ensure you have the proper extinguisher installed on your premises. Here are different types of extinguishers that you need to know.
Water-Fire Extinguishers
These are some of the most effective extinguishers in fighting the class ‘A’ fires. These are fires caused by textile, paper, and wood. Water fire extinguishers are categorized into four different types. These include mist or fog extinguishers, water spray extinguishers, water jet extinguishers, and water with additives extinguishers. All the water fire extinguishers are always red. These extinguishers are very effective in fighting fire and are also toxic-free.
Foam Extinguishers
These types of extinguishers can be used on both classes ‘A’ and ‘B’ fires. They are the ideal extinguisher to put out fires caused by liquids such as petrol or diesel. The foam extinguishers are more flexible than the water jet extinguishers since they can be used to extinguish solids such as paper and wood. Foam extinguishers put out the fire by blocking the surface of the liquid thus inhibits the flammable air to reach the air extinguishing it. These extinguishers are cream in their appearance.
The Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguishers
The carbon dioxide extinguishers are very good for places with several electrical appliances. These fire extinguishers are very safe to extinguish fires caused by electrical equipment. The CO2 extinguishers do not leave any solid substance as compared to foam extinguishers after putting out the fire. Furthermore, these extinguishers are ideal for use in class ‘B’ fires. The CO2 extinguishers work by suppressing the oxygen levels thus limiting the air supply. These extinguishers have a black label on them.
Powder Fire Extinguishers
The powder fire extinguishers are versatile as they can be used in extinguishing class A, B, and C fires. They can also be used to put out fires caused by electrical appliances. These extinguishers must be used with much care as they can lead to suffocation and poor visibility. These extinguishers are generally used outside the buildings to avoid being suffocated. Powder extinguishers feature a blue label on them.
Fire Blankets
These are solely used on hot oil fires experienced in frying pans. These can also be used on someone whose clothes are on fire. The fire blankets smother the fire, suppressing it of oxygen thus extinguishing it.
Having known the different types of extinguishers and the types of fire they extinguish, you can now pick the ideal one. These extinguishers will greatly help you in case of a fire outbreak. Most of them are multi-purpose thus will help you in putting out several classes of fire.