Fire extinguishers are essential safety devices used to control small fires before they escalate. However, using the wrong type of extinguisher can be ineffective or even dangerous. Understanding the different types of fire extinguishers and their specific applications is crucial for ensuring safety in homes, workplaces, and public spaces.

Types of Fire Extinguishers and Their Uses

Fire extinguishers are classified based on the type of fire they are designed to combat. Fires are categorized into different classes, and extinguishers are labeled accordingly:

Water (Class A)

Identified by: A red label with “Water”

Used for: Class A fires involving ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, textiles, and furniture.

Not suitable for: Electrical fires, flammable liquids, or gas fires.

How it works: Water extinguishers cool the burning material, removing heat and stopping combustion.

Foam (Class A & B)

Identified by: A cream-coloured label

Used for: Class A fires (wood, paper, textiles) and Class B fires (flammable liquids like petrol and oil).

Not suitable for: Electrical fires or gas fires.

How it works: Foam smothers the fire, cutting off the oxygen supply and cooling the flames.

Dry Powder (ABC Powder)

Identified by: A blue label

Used for: Class A, B, and C fires (flammable solids, liquids, and gases), including electrical fires.

Not suitable for: Confined spaces (due to inhalation risks), deep oil fires.

How it works: The powder forms a barrier between the fuel and oxygen, suppressing combustion.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) (Class B & Electrical Fires)

Identified by: A black label

Used for: Class B fires (flammable liquids) and electrical fires.

Not suitable for: Class A fires (wood, paper), cooking oil fires.

How it works: CO2 displaces oxygen, suffocating the fire without leaving residue.

Wet Chemical (Class F & Class A)

Identified by: A yellow label

Used for: Class F fires (cooking oils and fats) and some Class A fires.

Not suitable for: Electrical fires, gas fires.

How it works: The chemical reacts with burning oil, forming a soap-like barrier that prevents re-ignition.

Fire Blankets

Used for: Small cooking fires (pan fires), clothing fires, and smothering flames.

How it works: The blanket cuts off oxygen, stopping the fire’s spread.

Ensuring Fire Extinguishers Are In Date

Fire extinguishers must be regularly checked to ensure they are within their expiration date. Most extinguishers have a lifespan of 5 to 15 years, depending on the type and manufacturer. To check if an extinguisher is still valid, inspect the maintenance tag and pressure gauge. If the needle on the gauge is in the red zone, it may indicate that the extinguisher is no longer effective and requires servicing or replacement.

Proper Disposal of Expired Fire Extinguishers

Expired fire extinguishers should not be discarded in regular waste. Many contain pressurised substances or chemicals that require special disposal methods, so it is essential to ensure compliant fire extinguisher disposal:

  • Contact your local fire department or waste management service to check if they accept old extinguishers.
  • Take them to hazardous waste disposal facilities.
  • Some manufacturers offer recycling programs for expired units.

Improper disposal can be hazardous to the environment and may lead to penalties. Ensuring proper disposal and replacement of outdated extinguishers helps maintain safety standards in homes and workplaces.

Choosing the Right Fire Extinguisher

When selecting a fire extinguisher, consider the specific fire hazards in the environment. Businesses should conduct fire risk assessments to determine the appropriate extinguisher types. Homes, kitchens, garages, and workplaces may require a combination of extinguishers to cover different risks.

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

The PASS technique is commonly used:

  • Pull the pin.
  • Aim at the base of the fire.
  • Squeeze the handle.
  • Sweep from side to side.

Conclusion

Understanding the different types of fire extinguishers and their uses can save lives and prevent extensive damage. Regular maintenance, correct placement, and proper training on fire safety are essential for effective fire prevention and response. Ensure that your workplace, home, or establishment has the appropriate fire extinguishers readily available and that individuals know how to use them safely.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss the best way to get rid of your out of date fire extinguishers then please just get in touch. One of our team will be happy to help you.