Importance of Knowing Different Types of Fire Extinguishers

If firefighting tools joined a popularity contest, one of the leading contenders would have to be the fire extinguisher. This is because this type of firefighting tool can be found in almost all homes and practically in every commercial area in this country.

As there are different kinds of fire, there are also different kinds of fire extinguishers. Knowing the difference between these types is crucial for one to be successful and effective in extinguishing a fire. More importantly, using the wrong kind can pose a threat on your safety.

The different types of extinguishers are the following:

1. Water fire extinguisher

This type of firefighting device is water based and is used to extinguish Class A fires. Class A fires are those that started from burning organic solids such as wood, paper, clothing, and soft furnishings. Never use this type for other kinds of fire. For one, it may only result in the fire growing bigger or worse, if you use this in an electrical fire, you risk being electrocuted.

2. Foam fire extinguisher

This one is intended for Class B fires or fires that originated from overheated flammable liquids like petrol, oil or pains. It would be ideal to buy this type if your business makes use of such liquids or if you have a part in your home where you store these materials.

3. Dry powder extinguisher

This type is ideal for Class C fires or those that started from overheated flammable gases such as methane, propane or butane.

4. Powder fire extinguisher

Also known as the ABC extinguisher, this is safe to use for Class A, B, and C fires, which makes it the versatile choice among the range of firefighting tools.

5. Specialist powder fire extinguisher

This is designed to fight Class D fires or burning metals such as aluminum, magnesium or titanium.

6. CO2 (Carbon dioxide) extinguisher

This is the only one safe to use for electrical fires. Electrical fires can be a result of different things like malfunction of appliance or device, faulty wiring, loose connection, blown fuses, overloaded sockets and so on.

Knowing the different types of extinguishers is important because of these several factors:

1. Safety

Safety is the most important reason, as you do not want to endanger yourself, your family or the people around you by using the wrong kind of fire extinguisher.

2. Degree of effectiveness

By using the correct type, you have better chances of eliminating a fire successfully. As mentioned earlier, using the wrong one can result in a fire just growing bigger instead of smaller.

3. Right option to buy

If you know the different kinds of fire extinguishers, you would know which one is appropriate and suitable to buy for your home or business. You can protect your business or home more efficiently and you will save money.

Fire safety is a very broad topic. In order to be fire safe, you need to know many things about it. One of the most vital things to know is the different types of extinguishers as these firefighting tools can help you put out a fire and save lives.