Which Type of Fire Extinguisher Is Best for You?
Fire can be a devastating event. If not taken care of quickly, it can destroy your home and everything in it. One way to minimize the damages is by having a class e fire extinguishers at all times. This article breaks down the different types of fire extinguishers and what they are best suited for so that you can choose which one is right for your needs!
Water
A water fire extinguisher, also known as an AFFF (aqueous film-forming foam) or wet chemical fire extinguisher, uses a stream of liquid to put out fires. This type of fire extinguisher is used on Class B and C fires in electrical equipment since the water will not conduct electricity. The water extinguisher is also used to put out grease and oil fires and flammable liquid fires. These fire extinguishers are usually the largest of all types of fire extinguishers and must be stationary when in use. Water extinguishers should not be used on fires burning paper or wood since the water will just spread and add fuel to the fire. A water fire extinguisher puts out a Class A, B, and C type of fire.
Carbon dioxide (CO2)
CO2 fire extinguishers are the newest type of dry chemical fire extinguisher. They do not leave any harmful residue and can be used on Class A, B, C fires. This is an inexpensive option for home use as it costs less than $50 to purchase one. They are used for kitchen fires, flammable liquids, and electrical fires. Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers are ideal for use in homes because they will not damage equipment like dry chemicals or wet chemicals. They also pose little risk of injury to people, unlike Class B Halon fire extinguishers. While these units may be slightly more costly than dry chemical extinguishers, they are a good choice for homes.
ABC Powder
These are recommended for flammable liquid fires. ABC extinguishers can be used on Class B & C liquids, electrical equipment, and wood/paper materials involved in fire. The most common type of fire extinguisher is the dry powder extinguisher. This type of fire extinguisher is commonly used in homes and offices for its ease to use, affordability and portability. It’s a good choice if you have small children or pets since it doesn’t contain any harmful chemicals, so there will be no need to worry about leaving them unattended while the fire is being put out.
Wet Chemical
Wet Chemical fire extinguishers are the most common type of fire extinguisher. They’re usually found in homes, offices, and restaurants as well as on ships and airplanes. These fire extinguishers work by putting out fires with a powder or liquid agent that can be sprayed from a handheld device at the base of an active flame. This is an excellent choice for a home or office because it’s relatively inexpensive and easy to use.
It is essential to choose the correct type of extinguisher for your fire emergency. Knowing how different types work and what they are rated against will help you decide when it comes time to purchase one. Be sure that you have a plan in place with two extinguishers ready on each floor of your building. The best way to be prepared is by having a working knowledge of all types so that, if there is ever a need, you can pick out which one will be most effective depending on where the fire originates from or how big it has become.