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Having the right extinguisher for each fire class is vital. RACAM can help you choose the most suitable extinguishers for your specific environment and ensure your premises are well-protected against potential fire hazards!
Here’s everything you need to know about the different types of fire extinguisher and what they should/shouldn’t be used for.
Water extinguishers are designed primarily to combat Class A fires, which involve common combustible materials such as wood, paper, and textiles. They work by cooling the fire and reducing its temperature, ultimately extinguishing the flames.
It’s important to note their limitations. Water extinguishers should not be used on electrical fires or fires fueled by fats or oils, typically found in kitchen environments. Using water on electrical fires poses the risk of electrical shock, while using it on fat-based fires can spread the fire further.
These extinguishers are ideal for environments where Class A fires are more likely to occur, such as offices, schools, or areas with standard combustible materials.
Understanding the right situations to use water extinguishers is crucial. RACAM recommends training staff on their proper use and placing them strategically, ensuring they’re easily accessible in case of a Class A fire emergency.
Foam extinguishers are versatile, designed to combat Class A and B fires. Class B fires involve flammable liquids such as petrol, diesel, and oils. These extinguishers work by forming a layer over the burning substance, cutting off the fire’s oxygen supply and cooling it down.
While effective for many situations, foam extinguishers aren’t recommended for kitchen fires involving cooking oils or electrical fires. Using foam on kitchen fires might spread the fire, and on electrical fires, it poses the risk of electric shock due to its conductive properties.
Foam extinguishers are well-suited for environments where Class B fires may occur, such as areas with flammable liquids like warehouses, garages, or industrial settings with machinery.
It’s essential to train staff on the appropriate use of foam extinguishers and place them strategically in areas where flammable liquids are stored or used. RACAM advises ensuring these extinguishers are easily accessible for prompt action in case of a Class B fire emergency.
Dry powder extinguishers, known as “multi-purpose” extinguishers, are versatile and effective against Class A, B, and C fires. Class C fires involve gas fires like propane or butane. These extinguishers work by interrupting the chemical reaction of the fire.
Despite their versatility, dry powder extinguishers might not be suitable for confined spaces due to visibility and respiratory concerns. Additionally, they can cause damage to sensitive equipment when used indoors.
Dry powder extinguishers are well-suited for environments where various types of fires may occur, such as workshops, laboratories, or spaces with different fire risk classes.
It’s essential to train staff on the appropriate use of foam extinguishers and place them strategically in areas where flammable liquids are stored or used. RACAM advises ensuring these extinguishers are easily accessible for prompt action in case of a Class B fire emergency.
CO2 extinguishers are specifically designed to combat electrical fires and are effective against Class B fires involving flammable liquids. They work by displacing oxygen, suffocating the fire and suppressing its ability to burn.
While efficient for electrical and Class B fires, CO2 extinguishers aren’t suitable for Class A fires as they don’t cool the fire. Additionally, these extinguishers may not leave any residue, but they can pose a risk in confined spaces due to the displaced oxygen.
CO2 extinguishers are well-suited for places with electrical equipment, like offices, server rooms, or laboratories, where electrical fires are a potential risk.
RACAM advises strategic placement of CO2 extinguishers near potential electrical fire sources. Ensuring staff is trained in their proper use is essential for effective response in the event of an electrical fire emergency.
Wet chemical extinguishers are specifically designed for Class F fires, involving cooking oils and fats. These extinguishers work by reacting with the oil or fat, creating a soapy substance that blankets the fire, cooling it and preventing re-ignition.
While effective for kitchen fires, wet chemical extinguishers aren’t suitable for all types of fires. They may not be effective against other classes of fires such as electrical or flammable liquid fires.
These extinguishers are commonly found in commercial kitchens, restaurants, and other areas where cooking oils and fats are regularly used.
It’s essential to have wet chemical extinguishers placed strategically in areas prone to cooking fires. Staff training on proper usage is crucial to effectively tackle Class F fires and prevent potential hazards in kitchen environments.
Protect your business premises effectively with our range of specialised fire extinguishers tailored to combat specific fire classes.
At RACAM, we offer strategic placement and professional installation, ensuring compliance with UK regulations and safety standards. Our BSI Kitemarked products, accompanied by a 5-year warranty, guarantee quality and safety.
Contact us or find us in Glasgow for a free quote and fortify your fire protection with our premium fire extinguisher solutions!
Every year there are more than 1 million burglaries and attempted burglaries in the UK, and we want to help reduce that number significantly. There are many ways to protect your premises and with our knowledge and expertise, you’ll be in safe hands.
Setup by Brian Maguire & Joe Armstrong in 1998 and later joined by Brian’s son Calum, their team are proud to have protected thousands of homes and businesses throughout Central Scotland.
Our engineers are fully trained & suitably qualified, and our business is NSI accredited meaning that we are recognised by the industry’s premier security & fire certification body for our technical expertise and reassuring quality of service.
