Fire safety is paramount in any environment, be it a commercial space or a residential setting. When it comes to safeguarding against the threat of fire, one of the fundamental tools at our disposal is the fire extinguisher. Yet, despite their ubiquity, many individuals may not fully understand the different types of fire extinguishers and their proper use. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the basics of fire extinguishers to equip you with the knowledge needed to stay safe in the event of a fire emergency.
Meet Francis Fire:
At Francis Fire, our mission is to ensure the safety and security of our clients in Cheshire. Founded by Wayne Francis, a retired Fire and Rescue Crew Manager with over 25 years of combined experience, we specialise in fire extinguisher installation, fire extinguisher replacements and fire extinguisher servicing. With our expertise and dedication to fire safety, we strive to empower local individuals and businesses with the necessary tools and knowledge to mitigate the risks posed by fires.
Understanding The Classes Of Fires:
Before diving into the specifics of fire extinguishers, it’s essential to understand the different classes of fires. Fires are classed based on the materials fueling them, and there are six primary fire classes:
- Class A: Flammable Organic Materials such as wood, paper, cloth.
- Class B: Flammable Liquids such as petrol, Diesel, Oil.
- Class C: Flammable Gases such as LPG, Butane, Propane.
- Class D: Flammable Metals such as Magnesium, Titanium, Lithium.
- Class Electrical: Fires involving Electrically Supplied or Charged Equipment
- Class F: Flammable Cooking Oils & Fats
Types Of Fire Extinguishers:
Fire extinguishers are designed to combat specific classes of fires. Here are the most common types:
- Water Extinguishers (Class A): Suitable for Class A fires, water fire extinguishers work by cooling the flames and reducing the heat. However, they should not be used on electrical or oil/fat fires due to the risk of electric shock or spreading the fire.
- Foam Extinguishers (Class A and B): Foam fire extinguishers are effective against Class A and B fires. They form a barrier to smother the fire and prevent re-ignition. However, they are not suitable for electrical fires.
- Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Extinguishers (Class Electrical & B): CO2 fire extinguishers are ideal for Class Electrical and Class B fires. They work by displacing oxygen and suffocating the fire. These extinguishers leave no residue, making them suitable for use in areas with sensitive equipment or processes. However, must not be used in confined spaces due to the risk of asphyxiation.
- Dry Powder Extinguishers (Class A, B, and C): Dry powder fire extinguishers are versatile and can be used on Class A, B, and C fires. They work by interrupting the chemical reaction of the fire and forming a powder barrier to prevent reignition. However, internally they create visibility, respiratory, and secondary damage issues, and should be used with caution and in line with an independent health and safety risk assessment.
- Wet Chemical Extinguishers (Class F): Specifically designed for Class F fires, wet fire chemical extinguishers don’t react with cooking oil and fat fires and introduce a chemically bound solution, extinguishing the fire by smothering, cooling, and preventing splashing.
Proper Usage And Maintenance:
To effectively use a fire extinguisher, remember the acronym PASS:
- Pull: Pull the pin to break the tamper seal.
- Aim: Aim the discharge nozzle at the base of the fire.
- Squeeze: Squeeze the handle to discharge the extinguishing media.
- Sweep: Sweep the discharge nozzle from side to side, covering the entire base of the fire.
Regular annual fire extinguisher servicing of all portable handheld fire extinguishers is crucial to ensure their reliability in a fire emergency. Visual monthly fire extinguisher checks by the Responsible Person is paramount, checking for signs of damage or use and in the correct location, is essential. Always ensure your fire extinguisher servicing is planned well in advance and conducted by a BAFE approved and insured fire extinguisher service company.
Bottom Line:
Fire extinguishers are indispensable life critical fire safety equipment, but their effectiveness relies on understanding their media and fire class types and proper application. At Francis Fire, your local go-to fire extinguisher service company, we prioritise equipping all our clients with the core knowledge and resources necessary to protect themselves and their properties from the threat of fire.
By understanding the basics principles of fire extinguishers and adhering to proper safety procedures, we can all contribute to a fire safe environment for ourselves and those around us. Stay safe, stay informed, and be prepared for any fire emergency at any time.