The provision of means of fighting fires is a legal requirement under the regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) order. Correctly used fire extinguishers can make the difference between a minor incident and full scale disaster to your business. Using the wrong extinguisher can be dangerous and even make the the fire worse. Below is a guide to the types of fire risks you may encounter and a selection of the extinguishers available to fight them.

We can help you decide which extinguisher may be the the most suitable for your premisis, based upon your building occupancy and the fire hazards present.

Class A Fires

Freely burning materials such as wood, paper and textiles as well as plastics.

Water extinguishers

The water extinguisher is the basic extinguisher that covers most general Class A risks such as wood, paper and textiles. Water extinguishers must not be used on electrical fires or burning flammable liquids.

Class B fires

Flammable liquids such as petrol, spirits, wax and grease.

Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers

Carbon dioxide is a time proven clean agent. CO2 is non-conductive and is particularly effective in confined areas where there is a risk from flammable liquids. CO2 is non-toxic and leaves no residue, will not harm food, fabrics,machinery or electrical equipment. It is light and easy to usee and is generally combined with a water or foam extinguisher to provide good extinguisher cover in most situations.

Class C Fires

Flammable gases such as propane, butane and natural gas.

Foam Extinguishers

Foam extinguishers are highly effective against class B fires such as flammable liquids where the foam forms a smothering seal over the surface which also helps toprevent re-ignition, ideal for multi risk usage in areas such as workshops and garages. Foam may also be used against Class A fires. Must not be used on electrical fires due to the risk of electric shock.

Class D Fires

Flammable metals such as magnesium, sodium, potassium and lithium.

Dry Powder Extinguishers

Dry powder extingushers are highly effective in tackling electrical fires and fires involving flammable liquids. Dry powder may also be used for Class A fires involving wood, paper and textiles. A good all round extinguisher although it can be quite messy and render electrical equipment inoperative.

Electrical Hazards

Electrical equipment such as televisions, computers,toasters, copiers and fax machines.

Wet Chemical

Wet chemical extinguishers are designed specifically for use in commercial kitchens to tackle fires in deep fat fryers up to 75 litres. The chemical knocks out the flames, cools the the burning oil and seals the surface preeventing re-ignition. The extinguishers is easy to use, producing a gentle but highly effective spray which helps to prevent hot oil splashing on the user.

Class F Fires

Cooking oil and fat.

Fire Blankets

Although traditionally, Fire blankets have been associated with chip pan fires, they are effective in providing personal protection to assist in escape from a fire and are useful for extinguishing small fires such as bin fires. Fire blankets are available in a range of sizes.