Which Fire Extinguisher Do You Need?

11/4/2021 (Permalink)

The right fire extinguisher can help you stop a home fire before it spreads.

Types of Fire Extinguishers

A fire extinguisher is an essential piece of fire preparedness equipment. A variety of extinguisher classes are available. Learn about the differences between the four classes of fire suppressants and multi-class models to choose the right extinguisher to put out any home fire.

Class A Extinguishers

Class A fire extinguishers are suitable for standard combustibles such as

• Paper
  
• Plastics
  
• Textiles
  
• Trash
  
• Wood
  
  

These extinguishers contain monoammonium phosphate. This chemical works to smother fires.

Class B Extinguishers

Class B fire suppressants are suitable for flammable liquids such as

• Oil
  
• Gasoline
  
• Grease
  
• Kerosene
  
• Paint
  
  

Class B extinguishers combine monoammonium phosphate and sodium bicarbonate to smother and cause a chemical reaction that will put out fire.

Class C Extinguishers

A Class C fire extinguisher is designated for use with fires involving live electrical equipment. These extinguishers also contain monoammonium phosphate and sodium bicarbonate. The concentration of this nonconductive mixture may vary, and is formulated to pass standards set forth in UL711 and UL299.

Class D Extinguishers

Class D fire suppressants dispense a thick layer of inert agent over combustible or reactive metals such as

• Magnesium
  
• Potassium
  
• Pyrophoric organometallic reagents
  
• Sodium
  
• Titanium
  
  

Most homeowners do not require a Class D extinguisher.

Multi-Class Extinguishers

You may find multi-class fire extinguishers such as A-B extinguishers designed to combat fires caused by standard combustibles or flammable liquids. B-C extinguishers are similarly capable of suppressing fires fuel by liquids or electrical sources. A-B-C extinguishers are some of the most versatile residential fire suppressants. Depending on the part of your home where you plan to extinguish fires, you may want to choose a multi-class extinguisher for common fire hazards.

The right fire extinguisher can help you stop a home fire before it spreads and causes serious damage. If a fire causes damage to your home in Melrose District, CA, rely on the expertise of fire and smoke damage restoration specialists.