From anticipating fires in your home to the workplace, having an extinguisher on hand seems like the most logical move.
However, as many start their research, they quickly learn that not all fire extinguishers are the same, from their composition to the materials they target. To help you direct your efforts in the right direction, we've compiled answers to several frequently asked questions:
What Are the Different Classes of Fire Extinguishers?
Fire extinguishers fall into classes based on material and fire type:
- Class A applies to standard combustibles, such as wood, cloth, rubber, most plastics and paper.
- Class B is used to fight flammable liquids, including oils, grease, solvents and gasoline.
- Class C fire extinguishers should be used on electronics and live electrical equipment.
- Class D helps put out fires involving combustible metals, such as potassium, magnesium and lithium.
- Class K is used for cooking fires involving oils, fats and related appliances.
What Chemical or Material is Contained in a Fire Extinguisher?
The chemical or material used to put out the fire varies based on class. They include:
- Dry: This powder-based agent stops reactions involving heat, oxygen and fuel. The chemicals involved include monoammonium phosphate, sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate, potassium chloride and sodium bicarbonate. As they can be used on a wide range of materials, dry chemical extinguishers are the most common.
- Foam is an aqueous, alcohol-resistant fluoroprotein designed to cut off oxygen and prevent the flames from spreading. Foam is ideal for targeting combustibles and flammable liquids and solids.
- Water, often pressurized or delivered as a mist, lowers the temperature of the fire and causes it to gradually die down. Other chemicals, such as antifreeze, may be added to accelerate this process. Water is ideal for select combustibles, such as paper or cloth.
- Carbon dioxide works by removing both oxygen and heat and is typically used for electrical fires.
How Long Will My Fire Extinguisher Last?
Fire extinguishers last about five to six years from the date of manufacture before needing a refill or recharge. It's a good idea to check your extinguisher's operation once a month to ensure it performs when needed.
Single-use and disposable fire extinguishers should be replaced every 12 years.
Are Fire Extinguishers Reusable?
Excluding single-use systems, most fire extinguishers are designed to be refilled after use.
How Do I Know If a Fire Extinguisher Is Safe to Use?
Always check the pressure gauge before using a fire extinguisher. The arrow or indicator should be pointing to the green zone. If you see it in the red zone, your extinguisher needs service.
What If I Dropped My Fire Extinguisher?
Dropping can alter the pressure inside your fire extinguisher and affect how it operates.
If you dropped the extinguisher or if it fell at any point, keep it in an isolated area until someone can service it. Never put it back in its cabinet, and never attempt to repair the extinguisher yourself.
How Frequently Should I Service My Fire Extinguisher?
Have your fire extinguisher inspected once it is installed, and service it every 12 months going forward. However, if you notice leaking or a change in pressure, have a professional examine the extinguisher as soon as possible, and avoid using it until it's inspected and repaired.
How Do I Dispose of a Fire Extinguisher?
Pressure and the chemicals contained make fire extinguishers unsafe in many landfill environments. However, disposal guidelines vary by region. In many cases, the canisters will need to be taken to a hazardous waste management facility for environmentally sound disposal. Reach out to your local government or waste management facility to determine where and how you can dispose of your fire extinguishers.
How Do I Use a Fire Extinguisher?
Once ensuring the fire extinguisher is ready to use:
- Pull the pin.
- Aim the nozzle toward the base of the fire.
- Squeeze the handle on the fire extinguisher to release the chemical contained.
- Go from side to side over the flames until they appear to be fully extinguished.
- Wait a few minutes to make sure the area doesn't re-ignite.
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