Fire extinguishers are an essential tool for fighting fires in the workplace, at home, or in public spaces. There are different types of fire extinguishers designed for various classes of fires. It's essential to know which type of fire extinguisher is suitable for the specific type of fire you may encounter. In this blog post, we will discuss the different types of fire extinguishers and their uses.
ABC Dry Chemical
ABC dry chemical fire extinguishers are designed to put out fires caused by combustibles, flammable liquids, and electrical equipment. These fire extinguishers are filled with monoammonium phosphate, which is a dry chemical that can quickly extinguish flames by creating a barrier between the fuel and oxygen. ABC dry chemical fire extinguishers are ideal for use in areas where different types of fires may occur, such as in kitchens or workshops.
BC
BC fire extinguishers are designed to put out fires caused by flammable liquids and gases. These fire extinguishers contain sodium bicarbonate or potassium bicarbonate, which is a dry chemical that can extinguish flames by reacting with the fire's fuel source. BC fire extinguishers are not recommended for use on electrical fires or fires caused by combustibles.
Purple K
Purple K fire extinguishers are similar to BC fire extinguishers but are designed to put out fires caused by flammable liquids and gases that are under high pressure. Purple K fire extinguishers contain potassium bicarbonate, which is a dry chemical that can extinguish flames by interrupting the chemical reaction that causes the fire.
D-Class
D-class fire extinguishers are designed to put out fires caused by combustible metals such as magnesium, sodium, and titanium. These fire extinguishers contain dry powder that is designed to smother the fire by preventing oxygen from reaching the fuel source. D-class fire extinguishers are essential in areas where these types of metals are present, such as in laboratories or metalworking shops.
K-Class
K-class fire extinguishers are designed to put out fires caused by cooking oils and fats. These fire extinguishers contain wet chemicals that can extinguish flames by creating a barrier between the fuel and oxygen. K-class fire extinguishers are commonly found in commercial kitchens, restaurants, and other food service establishments.
Water
Water fire extinguishers are designed to put out fires caused by ordinary combustibles such as paper, wood, and cloth. These fire extinguishers are filled with water and are ideal for use in areas where these types of fires may occur, such as in offices, schools, and other public spaces. However, water fire extinguishers should not be used on fires caused by flammable liquids, electrical equipment, or combustible metals.
Halon
Halon fire extinguishers are designed to put out fires caused by combustibles, flammable liquids, and electrical equipment. These fire extinguishers contain halon gas, which can quickly extinguish flames by interrupting the chemical reaction that causes the fire. Halon fire extinguishers are commonly used in computer rooms, data centers, and other areas where electrical equipment is present.
Clean Agent
Clean agent fire extinguishers are similar to halon fire extinguishers but are designed to be more environmentally friendly. These fire extinguishers contain a clean agent, such as FM-200 or Novec 1230, which can extinguish flames by interrupting the chemical reaction that causes the fire. Clean agent fire extinguishers are commonly used in areas where sensitive electronic equipment is present.
CO2
CO2 fire extinguishers are designed to put out fires caused by flammable liquids and electrical equipment. These fire extinguishers contain carbon dioxide, which can extinguish flames by removing oxygen from the fuel source. CO2