Types of fires | Types of Fire Extinguishers

                                         Types of fires | Types of Fire Extinguishers

fire types

Types of Fire and Types of Fire Extinguishers

Fire is a rapid chemical reaction that produces heat, light and smoke. Fire can be classified into six different classes based on the type of fuel involved:

- Class A: Fires involving ordinary combustible materials, such as wood, paper, cloth, rubber and plastics.

- Class B: Fires involving flammable liquids, such as gasoline, oil, paint, solvents and alcohols.

- Class C: Fires involving energized electrical equipment, such as appliances, wiring, circuit breakers and outlets.

- Class D: Fires involving combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, sodium and potassium.

- Class E: Fires involving cooking oils and fats, such as vegetable oil, animal fat and grease.

- Class F: Fires involving lithium-ion batteries, such as those found in laptops, smartphones and electric vehicles.

Different types of fire require different types of fire extinguishers to effectively put them out. Fire extinguishers are portable devices that contain an extinguishing agent that can be sprayed or discharged onto a fire. Fire extinguishers are classified by the type of agent they contain and the classes of fire they can extinguish. The most common types of fire extinguishers are:

TYPES OF FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

- Water: Water fire extinguishers contain pressurized water that can cool down and smother Class A fires. They are not suitable for Class B, C, D, E or F fires, as they can spread the fire or cause electric shock. Water fire extinguishers have a red label and a red body.

- Foam: Foam fire extinguishers contain a mixture of water and foam that can form a blanket over Class A and B fires, preventing oxygen from reaching the fuel. They are not suitable for Class C, D, E, or F fires, as they can conduct electricity or react with metals or oils. Foam fire extinguishers have a cream label and a red body.

- Dry Powder: Dry powder fire extinguishers contain a fine powder that can smother Class A, B, C and D fires by interrupting the chemical reaction. They are not suitable for Class E or F fires, as they can create a dust explosion or ignite the oil. Dry powder fire extinguishers have a blue label and a red body.

- Carbon Dioxide: Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers contain pressurized carbon dioxide gas that can displace oxygen and suffocate Class B and C fires. They are not suitable for Class A, D, E or F fires, as they can reignite the fire or cause frostbite. Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers have a black label and a red body.

- Wet Chemical: Wet chemical fire extinguishers contain a solution of potassium acetate that can react with Class E fires and create a soap-like layer that cools and seals the surface of the oil. They are also effective on Class A fires. They are not suitable for Class B, C, D or F fires, as they can spread the fire or cause corrosion. Wet chemical fire extinguishers have a yellow label and a red body.

- Lithium-ion Battery: Lithium-ion battery fire extinguishers contain a liquid electrolyte that can neutralize Class F fires by breaking down the lithium-ion cells and preventing thermal runaway. They are also effective on Class A and B fires. They are not suitable for Class C, D or E fires, as they can conduct electricity or react with metals or oils. Lithium-ion battery fire extinguishers have a green label and a red body.

When using a fire extinguisher, it is important to follow the PASS technique:

- Pull the pin to break the seal

- Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire

- Squeeze the handle to release the agent

- Sweep from side to side until the fire is out

It is also important to know when to use a fire extinguisher and when to evacuate. Fire extinguishers should only be used when:

- The fire is small and contained

- The exit is clear and accessible

- The extinguisher is suitable for the type of fire

- The user is trained and confident

If any of these conditions are not met, it is safer to leave the area and call for professional help.

Fire is a serious hazard that can cause injury, damage and death. By knowing the types of fire and types of fire extinguishers, one can be prepared to prevent and fight fires safely and effectively.