5 Different Types of Fire Extinguishers
5 Different Types of Fire Extinguishers
These are 5 Different Types of Fire Extinguishers and the fires they are designed to put out. Each extinguisher is identified by its color and label, and the chart also includes a brief description of the type of fire each extinguisher is suitable for.
Here is a more detailed description of each type of fire extinguisher:
- Water extinguisher (red): This type of extinguisher is designed to put out fires that are caused by ordinary combustibles, such as wood, paper, and textiles. It works by cooling the burning materials and preventing them from reigniting. Water extinguishers are not suitable for use on fires that involve flammable liquids, grease, or electrical equipment.
- Foam extinguisher (cream): This type of extinguisher is also designed to put out fires that are caused by ordinary combustibles. It works by smothering the fire and preventing it from receiving oxygen. Foam extinguishers are also effective on fires that involve flammable liquids, such as gasoline and oil. However, they are not suitable for use on fires that involve electrical equipment.
- Powder extinguisher (blue): This type of extinguisher is the most versatile and can be used on a variety of fires, including fires that involve ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, electrical equipment, and even some metals. It works by smothering the fire and interrupting the chemical reaction that is causing it to burn. However, powder extinguishers can leave a messy residue that can be difficult to clean up.
- CO2 extinguisher (black): This type of extinguisher is designed to put out fires that involve flammable liquids and electrical equipment. It works by smothering the fire and removing oxygen from the area. CO2 extinguishers are also effective on fires that involve small amounts of flammable gas. However, they are not suitable for use on fires that involve large amounts of flammable gas or ordinary combustibles.
- Wet chemical extinguisher (yellow): This type of extinguisher is designed to put out fires that involve cooking oils and grease. It works by saponifying the burning oil, which turns it into a soapy substance that extinguishes the fire. Wet chemical extinguishers are also effective on some Class A fires, such as those involving wood and paper. However, they are not suitable for use on fires that involve flammable liquids, electrical equipment, or metals.
It is important to choose the right type of fire extinguisher for the type of fire you are most likely to encounter. You should also be familiar with how to use these 5 Different Types of Fire Extinguishers before you need it. In case of a fire, it is important to evacuate the building immediately and call the fire department. Only attempt to fight a fire if it is small and contained, and you have the proper training and equipment.