Class D: These are fires caused by combustible metals and chemicals like potassium, magnesium, and others Unscrew the head cap assembly to not more than one third of extent necessary for full disengagement – this allows any pressure remaining in the extinguisher to escape through the automatic means of venting. Then continue to open the extinguisher slowly.

In 2017, it was reported that nearly four in 10 construction workers were using the wrong type of fire extinguisher to deal with electrical fires – a survey revealed. In addition, electrical fires have become more common causes of fire due to a greater reliance on electrical products and batteries. In 2021, electricity was the top reported cause of fire (19%) according to a fire industry survey, so it’s important to know which extinguishant should be used. Please note, though, that there’s the risk of inhalation when operating a powder fire extinguisher in enclosed spaces. Inhalation can cause mild irritation to the nose, throat, and lungs, and can result in shortness of breath and coughing. Therefore, you should use powder fire extinguishers with care and only if specified as the most appropriate choice. It can be difficult to think clearly during an emergency, so fire safety has a long-standing acronym to help you recall the steps involved in operating your fire extinguisher. When extinguishing a fire, you should PASS:You’ll find the majority of extinguishers are Class ABC. This means they’re capable of putting out electrical, flammable liquid, paper and wood fires. These use dry chemical mono-ammonium phosphate as their extinguishing agent.

You should then sweep the nozzle from side to side upon your approach to the fire. Make sure you direct the extinguishing agent at the base of the flames, as doing so will give you the best chance of extinguishing the fire. Electrical fire: These are fires caused by electrical equipment like heaters, batteries, etc. Once the electrical aspect is eliminated, a person can use any other fire extinguisher based on the fuel for the fireBusinesses are likely to need other forms of fire extinguishers on the premises. CO2 extinguishers are commonly required on business premises, as they are used to combat electrical fires. If you are managing an office, for example, you will require this on the premises. After using it, even if you haven’t used all the pressure, it’s important to recharge it fully. Do this as soon as you can. If it’s a disposable model, throw it away and buy a new one as soon as possible. Pull pin at the top of the extinguisher, breaking the seal. When in place, the pin keeps the handle from being pressed and accidentally operating the extinguisher. Immediately test the extinguisher. (Aiming away from the operator) This is to ensure the extinguisher works and also shows the operator how far the stream travels

Schools and offices have extinguishers in place, but it’s down to you to have a fire extinguisher for your home. There are many states in the US where you’re legally obliged to have a fire extinguisher in your home, and whilst it’s not the law in the UK, they’re a crucial safety item to have. Class K: Suitable for kitchen fires, including oil, grease, and fat. The extinguishing agent is a wet or dry chemical. This may seem like a minor issue. And it’s simple enough to resolve. But if it does go unresolved, it can genuinely make the difference between life and death. Don’t use the wrong type of fire extinguisher: Never use a fire extinguisher for a class of fire that is not indicated on the label. Most importantly, extinguishers that are labeled for Class A fires only cannot be used on electrical or grease fires. However, it is safe to use an extinguisher labeled for Class B and C fires on a Class A fire. While Class K fires are technically a subset of Class B fires, other contents in Class B extinguishers can make Class K fires worse, so it’s best to get a separate extinguisher for cooking fires.In this article, you’ll learn the basics that apply to nearly all fire extinguishers, from the different types to how to use them. Using The Correct Extinguisher for the Type of Fire An anti-tamper tag should be in place to prevent the pin from being accidentally pulled out. However, if the extinguisher has a plastic pin, then this needs to be replaced on an annual basis. If the fire is small and you are fully trained to extinguish a fire, stand at least 3 metres away with the appropriate extinguisher in hand. Other specialist extinguishers should always be located at an easy point of access appropriate to the hazard. For example, you should have a wet chemical extinguisher located in the kitchen area if there is a risk of fire present. Should my fire extinguishers be serviced? In the event of a fire alarm, before fighting a fire, you should call the fire and rescue service (or the fire department) on 999 or 112 in the United Kingdom (or 911 in the United States). How to use a water fire extinguisher (used for Class A fires)