Fire Extinguisher Types and Their Uses

The effective use of a fire extinguisher in the event of a fire depends on the type of fire extinguisher and the type of fire it's designed to combat. Different types of fire extinguishers are specifically designed to handle various types of fires.  Here's a full explanation of each Fire Extinguisher Type,  Fire Extinguishers and how they're used and Fire Extinguisher Colours. 

 Click here to find our more about Fire Extinguisher Servicing & Inspections

Water and Foam Fire Extinguishers

The water and foam fire extinguishers work by taking away the heat element of the fire triangle (Fuel, Heat, Oxygen). Foam agents also separate the oxygen element from the other elements. These types of fire extinguishers are ideal for Class A fires only, which involve ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, cloth, and some types of rubber and plastics.

Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguishers

Carbon Dioxide fire extinguishers work by removing the oxygen element and reducing the heat with a cold discharge. They are designed for Class B and C fires. Class B fires involve flammable liquids like gasoline, oil, and paints. Class C fires involve electrical equipment like appliances, wiring, circuit breakers, and outlets..

Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers

Wet chemical fire extinguishers are ideal for Class K fires, typically found in restaurant kitchens. They involve cooking oil, animal fats, or vegetable fats. These extinguishers work by forming a foam that cools the fire and prevents re-ignition.

Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers

Dry Powder extinguishers are similar to dry chemical except that they extinguish the fire by separating the fuel from the oxygen element or by removing the heat element of the fire triangle. These are designed for Class D fires only, involving combustible metals like titanium, sodium, aluminum, and magnesium.

Water Mist Fire Extinguishers

Water Mist extinguishers are a newer development. They work by cooling the fire and reducing the levels of oxygen to put out the fire. They're an alternative to clean agent extinguishers where contamination is a concern.