Choosing The Right Fire Extinguisher

Choosing The Right Fire Extinguisher

Welcome to another HSI Safe in 60.

There are five main types of extinguishing agents.

The symbol on the front of the extinguisher tells you which kinds of fires it can handle.

Class A is for fires in ordinary combustible materials such as cloth, wood, rubber, paper, and many plastics.

Class B is for fires involving flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline, oil, and oil-based paints.

Class C is suitable for use on fires involving appliances, tools, or other equipment that is electrically energized or plugged in.

Class D is for flammable or combustible metals, like magnesium, titanium, or zirconium. Extinguishers are often designed for a specific type of metal.

Class K fire is intended for use on fires that involve vegetable oils, animal oils, or fats in cooking appliances. These extinguishers are generally found in commercial kitchens.

There are also multi-purpose fire extinguishers - such as those labeled "B-C" or "A-B-C." These can be used on two or more types of fires.

Remember, if you have the slightest doubt about your ability to fight a fire, evacuate immediately.

That's it for this safety minute.

Your safety is always worth the extra minute.