Choosing the Right Fire Extinguisher for Your Needs
Posted on: 9 October 2019
Imagine having a fire erupt in your home and reaching for the fire extinguisher, only to find that you cannot use it to fight the flames. Well, most people know that it is a requirement to have a fire extinguisher as part of their emergency safety equipment. Unfortunately, not many people understand that there are different extinguishers for different types of fires. Here is what you need to know about the most common types of fires in the home and the right extinguisher types for them.
Understanding Fire Classifications
It is crucial to know the right firefighting equipment for the different types of fire. Generally, there are six different fire classifications according to the fire department. The fires are classified from A to F, and each has its own unique methods of extinction. A Class A fire is caused by general combustibles, while Class B fires are caused by flammable liquids and combustibles. C fires are caused by flammable gases, while D is caused by metals that can catch fire. Class E fires are caused by electrical appliances, while Class F is all fires caused by cooking fats and oils. When you know the right cause of the fire, you will use the right extinguisher type to put it out.
Understanding Different Fire Extinguishers
There are five different types of fire extinguishers. Each type is used to put out the type of fire it is classified for. For instance, water fire extinguishers are used to put out fires created by different types of general combustibles, while powder extinguishers are used on flammable liquids and combustibles. Foam and carbon dioxide extinguishers can put out metal, flammable gases and fires caused by oil. The wet chemical is often used in environments like kitchens where flammable oil is commonly used. It is also known as a Class K extinguisher, and it creates a triangle around the flame to prevent oxygen from reaching the combustible.
Understanding When to Call Experts
The reason why fire extinguishers and other pieces of fire equipment are recommended is so that you can put out the fire as soon as it breaks out. However, there are times when the fire gets out of hand, and self-extinction becomes a challenge. When you are buying fire equipment, get a supplier who will also offer support such as fire safety training, especially how to use the extinguishers.
Fire safety starts with getting the right firefighting equipment. You can only find the equipment when you deal with trusted and reliable suppliers. With the right fire safety training and tools, you do not have to fear losing everything to a fire accident.
Share