Finding the Perfect Match: Choosing the Right Fire Extinguisher for Your Needs

Modern fire extinguishers use eight different extinguishing agents, each designed for specific fire classes and recommended for different situations. Having the right fire extinguisher is essential for protecting your home or business during an emergency. Since they’re often the first line of defense, it’s important to make sure you have the right type for the fire risks you may face. Take the time to check the fire extinguisher(s) you have and ensure they’re the right fit for your environment.

Types of Extinguishing Agents

abc dry chemical

Class A, Class B, & Class C Fires

ABC Fire Extinguishers are multi-purpose extinguishers that effectively extinguish Class A (combustible materials), Class B (flammable liquids), or Class C (flammable gases) fires. These commonly used fire extinguishers are available in various sizes, making them the ideal extinguisher in homes, offices, commercial kitchens, and in many other environments.

bc dry chemical

Class B & Class C Fires

BC Dry Chemical Fire Extinguishers are designed to effectively extinguish Class B (flammable liquids) and Class C (flammable gases) fires. Identified by a blue color band, they are most commonly used in environments where large quantities of combustible materials, such as alcohol, tars, oils, and oil-based paints are stored.

dry powder

Class D Fires

Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers are specifically designed for Class D fires involving combustible metals. They work by preventing burning metal or powder from spreading, helping to minimize damage. These extinguishers are ideal for industries where metal dust or shavings are present.

water

Class A Fires

Water Fire Extinguishers are designed for Class A (combustible materials) fire risks, which involve materials such as wood, paper, fabric, and other organic materials. They work by cooling the fire and soaking the burning material to prevent re-ignition. Water fire extinguishers should not be used on flammable liquids, electrical fires, or combustible metals, as water can be ineffective or even hazardous in such cases.

foam

Class A & Class B Fires

Foam Fire Extinguishers are designed for Class A (combustible materials) and Class B (flammable liquids) fires. They are ideal for environments where flammable liquids are transported, processed, stored, or used as an energy source. The foam agent works by forming a floating barrier on the liquid surface, smothering the fire to prevent re-ignition.

wet chemical

Class K Fires

Wet Chemical Extinguishers are designed for Class K fires involving combustible cooking materials. Commonly used in commercial kitchens, they are highly effective at extinguishing oil fires, particularly in appliances such as deep fryers. The chemical agent works by cooling the fire and creating a barrier to prevent re-ignition.

halogenated

Class A, Class B, & Class C Fires

Halogenated Fire Extinguishers are ideal for manufacturing, aviation, electronic, and computer environments, as they effectively extinguish fires without leaving residue or causing damage. This makes them an excellent choice for protecting sensitive equipment and critical infrastructure.

carbon dioxide

Class B & Class C Fires

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Fire Extinguishers are effective for Class B (flammable liquids) and Class C (electrical equipment) fires. They work by displacing oxygen, suffocating the fire without leaving any residue, making them ideal for use in environments with sensitive electrical equipment, such as server rooms, laboratories, and industrial settings.

fire classes

Click on each fire class below to learn more about the materials associated with them:

    • Wood

    • Cloth Paper

    • Rubber

    • Many Plastics

    • Alcohol and Alcohol-Based Solutions

    • Tars

    • Oils

    • Oil-Based Paints

    • Solvents

    • Energized Electrical Equipment

    • Magnesium

    • Titanium

    • Zirconium

    • Sodium

    • Lithium

    • Potassium

    • Cooking Oils

    • Fats

choosing an extinguisher

When choosing a fire extinguisher, it’s important to assess the fire risk in the environment, considering factors such as the types of materials present and the potential for fire hazards. Space and accessibility are also key, ensuring the extinguisher is easy to reach and stored in a visible location. Finally and most importantly, make sure the extinguisher meets relevant certifications, standards, and requirements to ensure compliance.

Still not sure what type of fire extinguisher your business needs? Contact NES today, and we’ll help you find the perfect solution!

Guest UserNational Extinguisher Service