Types of Fire Extinguishers and Their Uses

Introduction

• Presenter: Laura
• Topic: Types of fire extinguishers, their functions, and appropriate usage
• Importance: Essential tools for controlling and extinguishing fires

Classes of Fires in the U.S. (2023)

1. Class A: Combustible materials
2. Class B: Flammable gases
3. Class C: Electrical equipment
4. Class D: Burning metals
5. Class K: Cooking oils and fats

Types of Fire Extinguishers

Water Fire Extinguishers

• Use: Class A fires (ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, textiles, plastics)
• Function: Cools fire to reduce temperature below ignition point
• Limitations: Not for use on flammable liquids, electrical equipment, or cooking oils
• Availability: Available on firealarm.com

Foam Fire Extinguishers

• Use: Class A and B fires (ordinary combustibles and flammable gases like gasoline, oils)
• Function: Smothers fire to prevent reignition
• Limitations: Not for electrical fires
• Availability: Available on firealarm.com

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Fire Extinguishers

• Use: Class B and C fires (flammable gases and electrical equipment)
• Function: Displaces oxygen to suffocate fire; non-conductive, leaves no residue
• Availability: Available on firealarm.com

Dry Chemical Powder Fire Extinguishers

• Use: Class A, B, and C fires
• Function: Interrupts chemical reaction of fire with dry chemical powder
• Chemicals Used: Monoammonium phosphate or sodium bicarbonate
• Availability: Available on firealarm.com

Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers

• Use: Class A and K fires (kitchen fires involving cooking oils and fats)
• Function: Reacts with burning oil to form a cooling, fire-suppressing barrier
• Availability: Available on firealarm.com

Clean Agent Fire Extinguishers

• Use: Class B and C fires
• Function: Non-conductive gases like Halon extinguish fire without damage
• Areas of Use: Sensitive equipment areas
• Availability: Available on firealarm.com

Additional Information

• Fire extinguishers have symbols to indicate suitable fire classes
• Numerical ratings provide relative extinguishing capabilities
• Proper use is crucial to avoid worsening the situation or adding risks
• Regular maintenance and inspections are essential for readiness

Brands Available

• Amrex, First Alert, Badger, and more

Contact Information

• Phone: 888-497-0290
• Email: [email protected]

Conclusion

• Encourage viewers to subscribe and like the video for updates on fire safety
• Firealarm.com as a trusted source for fire and life safety