One of the topics we receive the most questions about are fire extinguishers, and we understand why – there’s so many different types, and they are all designed for different types of fires. It can feel intimidating when you’re faced with different classes of extinguisher and you don’t know which to pick. Don’t worry – we’re here to help.
How do fire extinguishers work?
Fires are made up by three components: heat, oxygen, and fuel. Fire extinguishers work by eliminating one of these elements, which prevents the fire from growing.
Fire extinguishers are designed to be operated by hand. They contain a chemical agent (wet or dry) that helps to extinguish the fire, and are suitable as an immediate response to small fires, or fires in their early stages. Please note that you should always raise the fire alarm before attempting to combat a fire. If the fire is too large, or you are not sure that you can put it out with the extinguisher, evacuate the building and call the emergency services.
How do I use a fire extinguisher?
Remember the acronym PASS:
P – PULL: Pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher to break the seal.
A – AIM: Keeping a safe distance, aim the nozzle at the fire.
S – SQUEEZE: Squeeze the handles together to release the chemical agent.
S – SWEEP: Sweep the nozzle from side to side, aiming at the base of the fire.
What are the different types of extinguisher?
Each fire extinguisher is designed to put out a specific class of fire. The six main types of fire extinguisher are:
- Water – suitable for Class A fires.
- AFFF Foam – suitable for Class A & B fires.
- Carbon Dioxide (CO2) – suitable for Class B and Electrical fires.
- ABC Powder (Dry Powder) – suitable for Class A, B, C, D, and Electrical fires.
- De-ionised Water Mist – suitable for Class A and Electrical fires.
- Wet Chemical – suitable for Class F fires.
What are the different types of fire class?
Class A: Solid combustibles (wood, paper, textiles)
Class B: Flammable liquids (petrol, diesel, paraffin)
Class C: Flammable gases (methane, propane, hydrogen)
Class D: Flammable metals (magnesium, aluminium, lithium)
Electrical: Suitable for electrical equipment
Class F: Cooking oil fires (cooking fat, deep fat fryers, olive oil)
How often should fire extinguishers be serviced?
Fire extinguishers should be serviced annually, or following each use.
If you notice any issues with your extinguisher, for example leaking, it should be serviced immediately.
Click here to learn more, or contact us for more information.
How long do fire extinguishers last?
Fire extinguishers typically have a life expectancy of 10 years. However, it is important to get your extinguishers serviced annually to ensure they are undamaged and are in full working order.
If your fire alarm is damaged or out of date, it will need to be replaced as soon as possible.
Find out more about our fire extinguisher services by clicking here.
What type of fire extinguisher should be used in the kitchen?
We recommend a Water Mist Fire Extinguisher for use in domestic kitchens.
In a restaurant kitchen, a Wet Chemical Extinguisher is suitable for cooking oil fires (Class F).
Is it a legal requirement to have a fire extinguisher?
According to BAFE:
““In the guidance documents provided for fire safety legislation (England and Wales/Scotland/Northern Ireland) the recommendation is that part of an employers’ measures for protecting their staff and others from fire is to install independently tested and certificated fire extinguishers.”
BS 5306-8 states that all workplaces should have a minimum of two water-based Portable Extinguishers, and that there is a member of staff trained to use them.
Where can I find fire extinguishers for my property?
Sunfish Services supply, service and maintain fire extinguishers. Click here to find out more, or call us on 01332 865091 to enquire.