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Last updated: 29.10.24

The 5 Different Types of Fire Extinguishers and Their Uses

 

If you don’t currently know the 5 types of fire extinguishers and their uses, you could be at risk of being unable to put out a fire in your building. Make sure you’re wise to which extinguishers will help your situation, not exacerbate it.

At Virtual College, we understand the importance of fire safety knowledge in the workplace. Our health and safety training courses can help you and your team to be as prepared as possible for any potential fire emergencies. 

Now - let’s get into the essential information about the different types of fire extinguishers and their uses. 

The Key 5 Types of Fire Extinguishers

Understanding the different types of fire extinguishers available and their uses is essential for creating a comprehensive fire safety management plan. Once you know them, you can assess which you will likely need on hand.

Here are the five main types you should be familiar with:

1. Water Extinguishers

Water extinguishers are the most common type you’ll find. They are filled with pressurised water and are best for Class A fires, which involve ordinary combustible materials like wood, paper and textiles. They work by cooling the fire and soaking the burning materials with water.

2. Foam Extinguishers

Foam extinguishers contain a mixture of water and foam concentrate. They're effective against Class A fires as well as Class B fires (which involve flammable liquids such as petrol, oil, or paint). The foam creates a blanket over the fire, effectively smothering it and preventing it from restarting.

3. Powder Extinguishers

This type of fire extinguisher is often referred to as a dry powder extinguisher because it contains a very fine powder that smothers the fire. They're versatile and can be used on Class A, B, and C fires (flammable gases). 

Some specialist powder extinguishers are also designed for Class D fires involving combustible metals.

4. CO2 Extinguishers

Carbon dioxide (CO2) extinguishers are filled with non-flammable carbon dioxide gas under very high pressure. They're ideal for electrical fires and Class B fires. CO2 extinguishers work by effectively starving the fire of oxygen.

5. Wet Chemical Extinguishers

Wet chemical extinguishers are specifically designed for Class F fires, which cover cooking oils and fats. They contain a solution that reacts with the hot oil to create a soapy foam, suppressing the fire.

Fire Classifications Explained

Deciding which type of fire extinguisher is right for the situation will depend on the classification of the fire. This knowledge is particularly important for individuals who are a designated Fire Warden for their workplace.

Check out the handy table below for a breakdown of the 6 key classifications:

Fire Classification

What does this include?

Class A - Combustible materials

Combustible materials like paper, wood and textiles

Class B - Flammable liquids

Flammable liquids like petrol, oil or paint

Class C - Flammable gases

Flammable gases such as butane, ammonia or propane

Class D - Flammable metals

Flammable metals include potassium, lithium and magnesium 

Class E - Electrical equipment 

Electrical fires include fires caused by kitchen appliances, small personal electronic devices and other electrical equipment

Class F - Cooking oils

Cooking oils, including vegetable or rapeseed oil - usually prepared in a fryer. 

What Fire Classification Can Each Type of Fire Extinguisher Be Used For?

Understanding which extinguisher to use on specific fire types is crucial for effective fire safety. Here's your quick guide:

  • Water extinguishers - Class A fires only
  • Foam extinguishers - Class A and B fires
  • Powder extinguishers - Class A, B, and C fires (some specialist powders for Class D)
  • CO2 extinguishers -Class B fires and electrical fires
  • Wet chemical extinguishers - Class F fires (and can also be used on Class A fires)

This is vital knowledge to have, should you ever need it.

What Kind of Fire Should You Not Use Certain Extinguishers For?

Using the wrong type of fire extinguisher can be dangerous. Here are some key points to remember as part of your fire precautions:

  • Never use water extinguishers on electrical fires, flammable liquid fires, or cooking oil fires
  • Avoid using foam extinguishers on electrical fires
  • Don't use CO2 extinguishers on chip pan fires, as the strong jet can spread the burning oil
  • Powder extinguishers shouldn't be used in confined spaces due to inhalation risks

How Many Types of Fire Extinguishers Do You Need in a Business?

The number and types of fire extinguishers required in a business depend on several factors, including:

  1. The size and layout of your business
  2. The nature of your business 
  3. Any specific fire risks that are present

It's crucial to conduct a thorough fire risk assessment to determine the proper number and types of fire extinguishers for your business. This assessment should be carried out by a competent person (such as a fire safety professional) and reviewed regularly as part of your overall fire safety management plan.

Stay compliant, the simple way

Our satisfied customers are the real proof of how effective our courses are. Here’s what verified customer Michael had to say about our online fire safety training on our 5-star Trustpilot account:

‘I had to do a fire course for my waffle business. The whole process was easy to use and very informative.’

  • Michael, food & beverage business owner


If you’re ready to get your fire safety knowledge up to date with simple and memorable courses, choose Virtual College’s comprehensive fire safety training courses.