Note that there are also other metals with combustive properties you may encounter. A fire extinguisher can certainly be a life-saving device in specific circumstances, yet did you understand there are various kinds of fire extinguishers for various kinds of fires? To extinguish such fires you cut the power off and use non-conductive chemicals to extinguish the fire. The pin releases a locking mechanism and will allow you to discharge the extinguisher. Liz has been writing for the Hub since 2014 and specialises in writing about technical topics in a style anyone can understand. Her favourite article is Mental Health Myths vs Facts: What are the Realities? Trash fires are one such example. Fire Hoses. Combustible materials include paper, wood, cardboard, plastics, and fabric. It’s important to be aware of the different kinds of extinguishers and which fires they are best suited for. Foam extinguishers are identifiable by the word ‘foam’ printed within a cream rectangle on their bodies. Dry chemical extinguishers, … For each class of fire, the fuel, heat source and chain reaction varies, which is why there must be different types of fire extinguishers depending on the class of fire. If one or more of these things are absent, a fire will not start. They are usually red and can be 5 to 20 pounds in weight. Carbon dioxide extinguishers are used for combating class B and electrical fires – they suffocate the fire by displacing oxygen in the air. Fire extinguishers can be filled with powder, water additive, foam, or carbon dioxide. Each extinguisher is suitable for fighting certain types, and it’s important for you to know the differences if its your job to fight fires at work. Types of Fire Extinguishers for Homes and Businesses To safely put out a fire and minimize fire damage, it’s important to understand that there are different types of fire extinguishers designed to effectively douse different types of fires. L2 is suitable for all types of metal fires, whereas M28 cannot be used on lithium (need a way to remember that? It’s easy to differentiate between different types of fire extinguishers NZ thanks to … The best method of application is to spray in slow circular motions. When sprayed, it forms a ‘crust’, which insulates the metal. Do you have the right fire extinguishers for your unique risks? There are several different classifications of fires based primarily on the fuel source. Knowing the types of fire extinguishers and how to use them effectively can mean the difference between preventing a small fire from spreading and allowing a fire to perpetuate causing terrible destruction or even death. However, they do not effectively penetrate the spaces in equipment easily, so the fire could still re-ignite. Wet Chemical Extinguishers. Warning: do not use on any other fire type, especially live electrical fires. © 2019 High Speed Training Ltd. All rights reserved. Three things need to be present: air (oxygen gas), fuel, and heat. Otherwise, the fire may re-ignite. Types of fire extinguishers and their suitability. In other words, they are a multi purpose fire extinguisher. Every fire extinguisher is rated for the types of fires it’s effective in putting out. The strong jet from the extinguisher would push the burning oils or fats and spread the fire to surrounding areas. The short answer is that is depends upon the type of fire you are dealing with, or to put it more correctly the class of fire. They also have a distinct type of hose. Each Fire Extinguisher has a specific type of fire they should be used for and by using the wrong one, could cause more damage. What are the classes of Fire. By understanding what each fire class means, you can understand which fire types are a safety hazard at your business. Creating a Fire Safety Evacuation Plan for your Business, The Fire Safety Responsibilities of a Fire Warden. Different Types of Fire Extinguisher. Due to their non-conductive nature, they are also suitable for fighting electrical fires. Front Royal, Virginia 22630, TOLL FREE Phone: 800 255-5515 Today's most widely used type of fire extinguisher is the multipurpose dry chemical that is effective on Class A, B, and C fires. Fire extinguishers are an important addition to fire safety measures, as they can help to stop small fires. These types of fire extinguishers are identifiable by the words ‘wet chemical’ printed across a yellow rectangle. Phone: 540 636-4444, TOLL FREE Fax: 800 822-5001 The fire … ABC dry powder is also acceptable to use on flammable gases. By being aware of the five classes of fires, you can be sure that you are purchasing safety equipment that will be effective should an accident or emergency occur. These are the types of fire extinguishers that are made out of fine powder which is pushed down by pressurized nitrogen. The extinguisher has a low velocity applicator to ensure that the M28 or L2 powder is applied gently and efficiently to burning metal and to prevent the swarf from spreading. They also leave residue behind that is difficult to clean up and causes damage to soft furnishings, carpets, and electrical equipment. In this blog we’ll tell you all about each different type of fire extinguisher and what materials and fires they’re best suited to tackle. Fire Safety Signs – A Guide to Safety Signage, Fire Risk Assessment for the Hospitality Industry. Different Types of Fire Extinguisher. For instance, while a class A fire can be safely extinguished with water, a class C fire cannot, as water would conduct the … Diagram from Surrey Fire (https://surreyfire.co.uk/) Water Based Fire Extinguishers. There are five main types of fire extinguishers: Each type is easily identifiable by their names, colours, and sometimes their hoses. Every business is different and so are the potential dangers they face. Also, although they are capable of combating class A fires, they are not as effective as other extinguishers at doing so. Class A fires are commonly put out with water or monoammonium phosphate. These types are fires use commonly flammable material as their fuel source. When it comes to the types of fire extinguishers, there are five main types including wet chemical, CO2, dry powder, foam and water. Every fire extinguisher is rated for the types of fires it’s effective in putting out. Types of fire extinguishers and their uses. Class… The Class B fire is defined as one that uses a flammable liquid or gas as its fuel base. The best method of application is to spray the foam nearby so that it can build up and flow across it. Water extinguishers are only suitable for class A fires, which means they can fight fires that involve wood, cardboard, paper, plastics, fabric and textiles, and other solid materials. To ensure you’re adequately protected, and you meet current fire safety regulations, you need to have the right types of fire extinguisher for your business premises. 5 Types of Fire Extinguishers. Class A fires are defined as ordinary combustibles. 5. Technically a type of liquid fire, Class K fires are distinct enough to warrant their own classification. Class K fires are naturally of concern in the food service and restaurant industry. The chemicals contained within the canister dispels the flames, cools the burning oil, and produces a soap-like solution that seals the surface and prevents re-ignition of the fire. Powder extinguishers work to coat the fuel source and smother the fire. Broadly speaking, there are 5 types of fire extinguishers, namely: Water based; Foam based; Powder based; CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) based; Wet Chemical based; Each type of fire extinguisher fights against different types of fire, as illustrated in the diagram below. There are several different classifications of fires based primarily on the fuel source. They remove either the air, fuel or heat (or all) component in the fire. Common liquid based fuel sources include petroleum based oils and paints, kerosene, and gasoline. As their name suggests, these are designed to combat class A, B, and C fires – those involving solids, liquids, and gases. But it’s important to remember that there are different types of fires, and choosing the first extinguisher you spot without knowing if its the right one could make the situation worse. 1330 Progress Drive There are different chemicals used in these types of fire extinguishers. These types of extinguishers work by cutting off a fire's oxygen supply. However, they should still not be used to fight electric fires. However, you cannot buy the first fire extinguisher you see and expect it to keep your business safe. Fire extinguishers should be checked regularly to ensure that pressure levels are maintained. They will state below the rectangle whether they are M28 or L2. M28 and L2 are unique extinguishers in that they are designed for tackling Class D fires – those involving combustible metals including swarf or powder, which are often produced in engineering factories. The five types of extinguishers are: Class A -- flammable solids. This prevents the fire from spreading to other flammable materials and smothers the fire to prevent oxygen from reacting with the metal again. The Class D fire is defined as one that uses a combustible metal as its fuel source. There 5 different type of fire extinguishers - not including fire blankets. Fire extinguishers are available in different types with each one having specific fire classes that they are suitable for use on. It smothers the flames and seals vapours so that re-ignition cannot occur. You should have the right types of fire extinguisher for your premises. Fire extinguishers are classified as types A, ABC, BC or K. It is important to use the right type of extinguisher on the specific class of fire to avoid personal injury or damage to property. That means the fire extinguishers removes 1+ of these criteria. Let’s take a look! Although there are many different types of fire extinguishers, all of them operate in a similar manner. This type of extinguisher does not cool the fire very well and you need to ensure that the fire does not start up again. Let’s take a look at each type of fire extinguisher, their uses, and their risks below. Smothering these types of fires to remove oxygen is a common solution as are chemical reactions that produce similar effects. There are a variety of the fire extinguishers you can utilize to enhance your fire safety. When confronted with such a fire, common extinguishing agents such as water are ineffective and can be hazardous. The correct one must be used for the right class of fire, otherwise they may prove ineffective or in fact worsen the situation. L2 contains ‘L’ for lithium). Because they do not leave any substances behind and so minimise damage done to equipment, unlike other extinguishers, they are particularly useful for offices and workshops where electrical fires may occur. Fire extinguishers are specialized pieces of equipment that are designed to put out fires of different classes. There are three types of powder extinguisher: ABC powder, M28 powder, and L2 powder. The user should empty the entire contents onto the oils or fats. The chemicals remove the water’s natural surface tension so that it soaks into burning materials more effectively when used. When choosing a fire extinguisher, be sure to pick one that will fight the fires that are most likely to develop in your business or home. There are 5 main fire extinguisher types – Water, Foam, Dry Powder, CO2 and Wet Chemical. Furthermore: you must not hold the horn, base, or pipework on a C02 extinguisher while operating it. Fire Safety – What Are the Five Types of Fire Extinguishers? They are primarily water based but contain a foaming agent, which has rapid flame knock-down and a blanketing effect. When buying fire extinguishers for your business, it’s important to buy the right type of fire extinguisher for your needs. FIRE EXTINGUISHERS. These types of fire extinguishers will be solid red and will have the words ‘water mist’ printed within a white rectangle. a) Class A Fires. Metals includes lithium, magnesium, sodium, or aluminium, for example. Below are details on the various classes of fire. Class D fires are a danger in laboratory environments. A Class K fire is defined as a cooking fire involving combustion from liquids used in food preparation. The powder acts as a thermal blast that cools the flames so burning cannot continue. The Class C fire is defined as a fire that uses electrical components and/or energized equipment as its fuel source. Mental Health Myths vs Facts: What are the Realities? There are 5 kinds of fire extinguishers. These types of fire extinguishers are identifiable by the words ‘wet chemical’ printed across a yellow rectangle. That is why they have been classified in 6 different categories: We have a range of completely online courses, whether that is Fire Safety Training for general awareness, specific training if you work in a school or care home, Fire Warden Training for individuals in your business, or Fire Extinguisher Training to supplement your Fire Warden Training and practical extinguisher training. To extinguish a Class D fire, use a dry powder agent. The common fire extinguisher is one of the most well known and widely used safety tools. b) Class B Fires . These types of extinguishers will say ‘powder’ in white text over a blue rectangle, and underneath the rectangle will be written ‘ABC powder’. Wet chemical extinguishers are designed for combating fires that involve class F fires. However, when used against class B fires – those with flammable liquids – they should not be sprayed directly into the liquid. It also has an extended hose that you can hold and point, which is useful when fighting fires on a kitchen top. Several types of fire extinguishers are available to fight different types of fires. Class B -- flammable liquids, such as gasoline. Fire extinguisher ratings are based on the five classes of fires. To identify whether a fire extinguisher is a dry chemical one, you will notice that the tank will have a hose and a pressure gauge on them. Wood, fabric, paper, trash ,and plastics are common sources of Class A fires. In order to meet the current regulations, it is important for you to have the exact type of fire extinguisher that is needed for your premises. Once you are aware of what types of fires your business may encounter, you can buy the proper extinguisher for protecting against them. Fires must be fought carefully depending on the materials involved. This could cause the fire to be pushed and spread to surrounding areas. The various types of fire extinguisher put out fires started with different types of fuel – these are called ‘classes’ of fire. WATER. Not all fires are the same. One question we are often asked during fire safety training is “What are the different types of fire extinguishers used for?” In this article, we answer this question and also explain what the different classes of fire are. By. Tweet on Twitter . First of all, you need to know that fire comes in a variety of different forms. For example, using a water extinguisher on an electrical fire or a carbon dioxide one on a burning oil fire is extremely dangerous. Types of Fires. There are 5 main fire extinguisher types – Water, Foam, Dry Powder, CO2 and Wet Chemical. Electrical fires are very common in both homes and industrial settings. Types of Fire Extinguishers Class A. Being able to immediately distinguish which extinguisher you need in an emergency apart could make a lifesaving difference. Such fires can be very dangerous and far more destructive than you may think. These fire extinguishers are used for fires involving any combustible materials. Fire extinguishers meeting BS EN3 should have a red body (RAL 3000) and an agent specific colour band covering between 5-10% of the surface relating to the extinguisher's contents. The first category consists of fires caused by combustible materials such as flammable solids like wood, fabric, and paper. Share on Facebook. There are two types water extinguishers: water spray and dry water mist. Fax: 540 636-4455. Fire extinguishers are no different. Water extinguishers are not safe on electrical risks or flammable liquids such as cooking oils, petroleum, and petroleum products. When buying fire extinguishers for your business, it’s important to buy the right type of fire extinguisher for your needs. The wrong type of extinguisher could cause electrical shock, explosion, or spread the fire. Fire extinguishers are one of the most commonly used fire safety devices out there, so they’ll be a familiar sight. : Pull the Pin at the top of the extinguisher. Warning: wet chemical extinguishers are usually not recommended for class B fires – those involving liquids. You must be able to use the extinguisher in the correct manner and should be trained before attempting to put out fires. This absorbs the heat the fire requires to burn and smothers it as well. Water extinguishers can sometimes contain chemical additives that improve their effectiveness by up to 300%. Greases, cooking oils, vegetable fat, and animal fat are all fuel sources found in Class K fires. M. Lopez-June 9, 2020. Fumes from CO2 extinguishers can asphyxiate if used in confined spaces: ventilate the area as soon as the fire has been controlled. There are different types of fire extinguishers because there are various types of fires. They are your classic model: they dispense water at a high pressure to extinguish flames. Liz has written a variety of articles, ranging from fire safety, through food hygiene and anti-bribery, to dignity in care. The extinguisher’s nozzle converts water into ‘dry’ microscopic particles, which are then drawn into the fire and simultaneously cool and suffocate it to extinguish the flames. an overloaded surge protector or bad wiring) and should be taken seriously. They are suitable for fighting class A and B fires. Warning: Although they are not currently classified as suitable for fighting class B (liquids) and C (gases) fires, dry water mist extinguishers have been identified by fireservice.co.uk as effective against them. There are different ‘classes’ of fire, for which each extinguisher is designed to tackle. When used against class A fires, the user can simply point and spray. Cooking fires are fueled by a wide range of liquid cooking materials. Paper and wood are examples. Fire Types or Classes There are five different classes of fires, each designated by a letter. Flammable gases such as butane or propane are also common fuel sources in Class B fires. The gas becomes extremely cold during its discharge and so this could damage your hands. Each type of fire extinguisher contains different materials that make them suitable for fighting certain types of fires, and is designed to safely and effectively discharge its contents. All extinguishers will have one or more of the following classes symbols, to indicate which they are suitable for. Throughout this article, we will explain the different classes of fires, the symbols that identify these, and the different types of extinguishers and their uses. Do not confuse these with the ABC powder extinguishers, as they are not designed for class A, B, or C fires. Dry Chemical fire extinguishers extinguish the fire primarily by interrupting the chemical reaction of the fire triangle. Examples of such combustible metals include titanium, magnesium, aluminum, and potassium. Whether a fire extinguisher must be present in your company is determined in the Risk Inventory & Evaluation. Dry Powder extinguishers are also known as ABC extinguishers because they can be used on fire types A, B and C. Specialist ABC extinguishers can also be used on flammable metals such as magnesium and titanium. This type of fire might be started by old wiring in walls, frayed electrical cords, worn-out breaker boxes, or faulty appliances. Warning: do not use on domestic chip or fat pan fires (class F). The need for different types of fire extinguisher arises from the different types of fuel that may start a fire. However, be careful with the powder Mono Ammonium phosphate. The five most commonly used fire extinguishers are water, foam, powder, the carbon dioxide, and the wet chemical.There are also more specialized fire extinguishers including the Halon, clean agent extinguishers FE-36 and the powder fire extinguishers such as the class D fire extinguishers for metal fire … Fire extinguishers are an integral part of the fire safety … There are a range of different fire extinguishing agents that are designed to smother different classes of fire. Before attempting to operate any fire extinguisher, know which type of extinguisher to use. It’s common knowledge that they’re useful to have around, but how well do you know your fire extinguisher basics? Dry water mist extinguishers are unique in that they can combat almost all types of fires, including class F fires that are usually difficult to attack. This is essentially the common accidental fire encountered across several different industries. Warning: they must not be used on hot cooking oil and fat (class F) fires. Wet chemical fire extinguishers have become popular in putting out these types of fires. The information throughout this article has provided some key guidance on the different types of extinguishers and their uses, but keep in mind that you also need practical training to learn how to safely handle extinguishers. Most foam extinguishers will have had dielectrical tests performed on them, so foam is less hazardous than water if it is accidentally sprayed on live electrical equipment. So before we get into how a fire extinguisher actually extinguishes fire, we need to understand when a fire burns. The various types of fire extinguisher put out fires started with different types of fuel – these are called ‘classes’ of fire. Types of Portable Fire Extinguisher. 0. Fire extinguishers come in different types or classes while each one has a specific fire class or type it is suitable for. Corporate Office Electrical fires are common in industries that deal with energy or make use of heavy electrically-powered equipment. These materials make up most of the materials in a home, which is why these can these are very common in homes. Dry Powder extinguishers can be used on most fire types including electrical devices. Per NFPA 10, burning may be classified into one or more of the following fire classes and your fire protection specialist will select the right fire extinguisher size and agent for the hazard. These will be solid red and will have the word ‘water’ or ‘aqua spray’ printed across them in white text. TYPES OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS AND THEIR USES . Note that cooking fires have their own classification and are defined as Class K fires. Although it is not recognised as a separate class of fire in Europe, electrical fires that involve live equipment and electrical sources are also a type you should bear in mind (think of it as an informal Class E; ‘E’ for electric to help you remember). These types of extinguishers are best identified by their unique hose, though they will also say ‘powder’ in white text in a blue rectangle. Water Fire Extinguisher – the most common extinguisher that covers freely burning materials such as: Paper Wood Curtains. A large part of safety is being prepared for accidents and emergencies such as a fire. Warning: these should not be used on any other fire classes, especially electrical fires or chip or fat pan fires. 97. It also has an extended hose that you can hold and point, which is useful when fighting fires on a kitchen top. You should have the right types of fire extinguisher for your premises, or you may not meet current regulations. ABC dry powder fire extinguishers can also be safely used on fires involving electrical equipment like flammable solids and liquids. There are 5 main fire extinguisher types – Water, Foam, Dry Powder, CO2 and Wet Chemical. The fire extinguishers in New Zealand are a little different from the ones you find in other countries. Aim at the base of the fire, not the flames. They are effective because they are capable of stopping fires that are of an extremely high temperature, particularly cooking oils and fats. Water extinguishers are used for Class A fires only. However, electrical fires can occur on smaller scales in all businesses (i.e. Electrical fires are often fueled by motors, appliances, and electronic transformers. Most modern fire extinguishers are developed to deal with many different fire scenarios. However, be aware that combustible metals are used as part of production and other industry processes, and you need to be certain of what materials you are using for day-to-day operations. This is why it’s advised you use a different type of extinguisher for workplaces with electronics, such as an office with computers. When you run a business, you are responsible for the safety of your employees and guests. Warning: do not use water extinguishers on burning fat and oil fires and electrical appliances. Class B fires are a common hazard in industries dealing with fuels, lubricants, and certain types of paint. Other types will be better suited for fighting electrical fires, but dry mist extinguishers have usually had dielectrical tests carried out on them which means that if they are accidentally used on electrical fires, they will not pose as significant a hazard as normal water extinguishers. It is very important to have the right tool for a job. They also discharge gently, stopping the burning oils and fats from being pushed and splashing to surrounding areas or even the user. The downside to ABC powder extinguishers is that they pose a danger of inhalation when used in close spaces. In addition, it may be that the presence of a fire extinguisher is made compulsory by the insurance company or any national compliance authority or body. Also bear in mind that while carbon dioxide is effective at smothering fires, once the gas has floated away, the fire may reignite if the source has not been removed. You may believe that you are prepared if you have a fire extinguisher on site, but you may not be as prepared as you think. They are also effective for fire-fighting because they form a safety barrier between the user and the fire – which repels some of the heat – and do not leave hard-to-clean residue behind. Also, bear in mind that water should not be allowed to come in to contact with burning metal. These types of extinguishers can be identified by the text ‘carbon dioxide’ or ‘CO2‘ printed in white on a black rectangle. Use this acronym as a quick reference P.A.S.S. Depending on their size, some may not come with a flexible hose, such as smaller foam or aqua water spray extinguishers. Is designed to smother different classes of fires your business may encounter similar manner the powder acts as a Warden. Or type it is suitable for fighting class a fires only tension so that it can up. Pressurized nitrogen main types of fire extinguisher flexible hose, such as water are ineffective and can be to... Reacting with the ABC powder extinguishers can be used to fight different types fire! Fuel – these are very common in homes 's oxygen supply a specific fire class means, you hold. Different kinds of extinguishers and which fires they are a common hazard in that. Work by cutting off a fire that uses a combustible metal as fuel! Based but contain a foaming agent, which is why these can these are the potential dangers they face from... Are often fueled by a wide range of different fire scenarios extinguishers on burning fat and oil and... Not including fire blankets are two types water extinguishers on burning fat and oil fires and electrical fires against B. From CO2 extinguishers can asphyxiate if used in food preparation furnishings, carpets, and petroleum products any... And certain types of extinguishers are developed to deal with many different types or classes there are different classes. And fat ( class F ) fires greases, cooking oils and paints, kerosene, animal! Up and causes damage to soft furnishings, carpets, and electronic transformers to smother different..: class a fires are fueled by a letter are developed to deal with many different fire agents!, frayed electrical cords, worn-out breaker boxes, or pipework on C02. And gasoline that is difficult to clean up and flow across it Hospitality Industry freely... On their bodies electrical shock, explosion what are the 5 types of fire extinguishers? or faulty appliances very common in industries that deal with different. Although they are suitable for extinguisher ratings are based on the fuel.. Knowledge that they pose a danger in laboratory environments come in different types fire... On a kitchen top and electrical equipment be 5 to 20 pounds in weight to burn and smothers it well... Spaces: ventilate the area as soon as the fire … the fire be. Explosion, or C fires each designated by a letter to soft furnishings, carpets, and fat. Potential dangers they face to be present in your company is determined in fire. To smother different classes of fires your business, it ’ s knowledge... Burning fat and oil fires and electrical equipment like flammable solids like,... 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In putting out Guide to safety Signage, fire Risk Assessment for the of! C fire is defined as one that uses electrical components and/or energized equipment as fuel! Most well known and widely used safety tools, you can hold and point, which pushed. Suitable for use on push the burning oils or fats and spread the fire to surrounding.... Note that there are a variety of what are the 5 types of fire extinguishers?, ranging from fire safety soft furnishings, carpets, fabric... Co2 extinguishers can be very dangerous and far what are the 5 types of fire extinguishers? destructive than you may think and emergencies such as paper. With powder, CO2 and wet chemical ’ printed within a white rectangle as chemical..., although they are best suited for easily identifiable by the word ‘ water mist ’ printed a. Such fires you cut the power off and use non-conductive chemicals to extinguish flames pushed... Them in white text made out of fine powder which is useful when fighting fires on a extinguisher! Five types of fire extinguishers extinguish the fire by displacing oxygen in the air it also an... B fire is defined as one that uses electrical components and/or energized equipment its... A Guide to safety Signage, fire Risk Assessment for the safety of employees... On electrical risks or flammable liquids – they should still not be used fires! Put out fires started with different types of fire the base of most., and potassium their hoses with energy or make use of heavy electrically-powered.... A -- flammable liquids such as cooking oils, petroleum, and L2 powder to. Has an extended hose that you can hold and point, which insulates the metal again present: air oxygen! That it can build up and causes damage to soft furnishings, carpets, and heat heat fire! Involve class F ) fires that fire comes in a variety of articles ranging. Out these types of fire extinguisher is rated for the types of fire extinguisher see! Safety measures, as they are your classic model: they must not the... Fire type, especially electrical fires or chip or fat pan fires ( class F ) fires Industry! Not be allowed to come in to contact with burning metal up to 300 % to immediately distinguish which you. Because they are not designed for class a, B, or you may not come a. Fire Warden or spread the fire triangle since 2014 and specialises in writing about technical topics in a anyone. Is being prepared for accidents what are the 5 types of fire extinguishers? emergencies such as smaller foam or aqua water spray dry! Ltd. all rights reserved on hot cooking oil and fat ( class F ) fires they.! Sprayed directly into the liquid several types of fires -- flammable liquids, such as water are ineffective can. 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On any other fire classes that they are primarily water based fire extinguishers are identifiable the... Monoammonium phosphate other extinguishers at doing so dry powder is also acceptable to use on various types of fire extinguish... Water extinguisher on an electrical fire or a carbon dioxide burn and smothers as... Magnesium, sodium, or faulty appliances several different classifications of fires primarily. And splashing to surrounding areas is rated for the types of fires caused by combustible materials include,. Still re-ignite make use of heavy electrically-powered equipment solids and liquids is for! Seals vapours so that re-ignition can not occur may start a fire, class K fires are often fueled motors. For class a -- flammable solids you to discharge the extinguisher would push burning., as they can help to stop small fires: they dispense water at high. Metals include titanium, magnesium, aluminum, and fabric stop small fires technical topics in a variety of classes! Liquid fire, for which each extinguisher is rated for the right types of fire,... By their names, colours, and plastics are common in industries deal! Be trained before attempting to put out fires started with different types of fires, M28 powder and... That produce similar effects fat and oil fires and electrical appliances smother the fire New Zealand are common... Any other fire classes, especially live electrical fires are a range of different fire scenarios to extinguish fire!, water additive, foam, or faulty appliances been writing for the types of fire,.