Types of Fire and Their Extinguishers: Comprehensive Guide

From the perspective of firefighting, there have been numerous fire types, each requiring suitable extinguishers that can deal with a fire. Whichever the type of fire, each should be extinguished accordingly to deal with whatever material is burning. In this section, we go into depth about the types of fire and their extinguishers with the aim of keeping you better prepared.

What Are the Main Classes of Fire?

Fires are classified according to their fuel source into specific classes or types. These include Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, and Class K. Each class reflects a specific kind of fire hazard that requires some unique sort of extinguishing method.

Class A: Fires Involving Ordinary Combustibles

Class A fires involve solid materials, which include wood, paper, fabric, and some types of plastics. These are the typical fire configurations one encounters in a dwelling environment, offices, and outdoors.

Extinguishers for Class A Fires:

• Water-based extinguishers: Effective as they cool the burning material.
• Foam extinguishers: Provide a layer that smothers the fire and prevents re-ignition.
• Multipurpose dry chemical extinguishers: Can also handle Class B and C fires.

Key Tip: Do not use water extinguishers on electrical equipment or flammable liquids.

Class B: Fires Involving Flammable Liquids

Class B includes fires involving flammable liquids, such as gasoline, oil, alcohol, and paint, among other chemicals.

Extinguishers for Class B Fires:

• Foam extinguishers: Smother the liquid to cut off oxygen.
• Carbon dioxide (CO₂) extinguishers: Replace oxygen around the fire and cool the burning material.
• Dry chemical extinguishers: Provide a barrier to stop the chemical reaction sustaining the fire.

Precaution: Avoid water extinguishers as they can spread the flammable liquid, worsening the fire.

Class C: Fires Involving Electrical Equipment

Class C fires involve energized electrical equipment such as wiring, circuits, motors, and appliances.

Extinguishers for Class C Fires:

• Carbon dioxide (CO₂) extinguishers: Non-conductive and effective for electronics.
• Dry chemical extinguishers: Interrupt the fire’s chemical reaction without conducting electricity.

Important Note: Always disconnect the power source if it’s safe to do so before extinguishing the fire.

Class D: Fires Involving Combustible Metals

Class D fires involve combustible metals including, but not limited to, magnesium, aluminum, and sodium. Class D fires most often occur in laboratories and within manufacturing processes.

Extinguishers for Class D Fires:

• Specialized dry powder extinguishers: Designed specifically for metal fires, these extinguishers isolate the fire and absorb heat.

Key Warning: Never use water or standard extinguishers on metal fires as they may react explosively.

Class K: Fires Involving Cooking Oils and Greases

Class K fires take place in the kitchen and involve cooking oils, greases, or fats. Class K fires are very common in restaurants and homes that have deep fryers.

Extinguishers for Class K Fires:

• Wet chemical extinguishers: Release a fine mist that cools the oil and creates a barrier to block re-ignition.

Critical Advice: Do not use water extinguishers; they can cause the oil to splatter and intensify the fire.

Fire Extinguishers Prices In Kenya

How to Choose the Right Fire Extinguisher

Your choice of what type of fire extinguisher to use is determined by the potential sources of fires that are around you. Consider:

• Assess the fuel source: Identify the materials most likely to ignite.
• Location-specific needs: Kitchens require Class K extinguishers, while industrial sites may need Class D.
• Size and weight: Choose an extinguisher that is manageable for all potential users.
• Multi-purpose extinguishers: Opt for ABC-rated extinguishers for environments with varied risks.

Best Practices for Using Fire Extinguishers

The safe use of a fire extinguisher for effective operation can be done by applying the PASS method to the several kinds of portable extinguishers. To choose the correct extinguisher:

• Pull the pin to break the seal.
• Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent.
• Sweep the nozzle side to side to cover the fire area.

When Not to Use a Fire Extinguisher

In some cases, fighting a fire is dangerous:

• If the fire is too large or spreading rapidly.
• If you are unsure of the fire type or the appropriate extinguisher.
• If the environment is filled with smoke, risking suffocation.

In such cases, evacuate immediately and call emergency services.

Maintaining and Inspecting Fire Extinguishers

To ensure fire extinguishers are functional when needed:

• Inspect monthly for damage, leaks, or corrosion.
• Check the pressure gauge to make sure the extinguisher is charged.
• Check annually by a professional to ensure operationally ready.
• Replace extinguishers after the expiration date or if they are used.

Conclusion

Knowing the types of fire and respective extinguishers is part of the safety that one can have in any place that they are. Small incidents will not grow into disasters if proper knowledge, awareness, and preparedness are present. Ensure that appropriate types of fire extinguishers are always available and serviced correctly. Remain alert, following safety measures to reduce the fire risk.