Fire Extinguishers – Types And Uses

Mankind discovered fire in prehistoric times. Some say that man's discovery of fire, and how to use it, is the root of all man's inventions and innovations. But even until today, man cannot fully control fire. Fires are common calamities that happen all over the world. Fires can cause damage to property, as well as cause injuries and even deaths.


Traditionally, water is used to put out fires. Unfortunately, water is unsuitable for some types of fires. Oil floats on water, so oil fires cannot be effectively controlled with water. Water conducts electricity, thus water is a dangerous choice when dealing with electrical fires. The search for safe and effective methods of extinguishing fires has led to the invention of fire extinguisher.

Extinguishers are devices used to extinguish or control small fires. They are not designed to be used for fighting out-of-control fires, like when the fire reaches the ceiling – in cases like this; it should be left to the firefighters. Fire extinguishers are metal cylinders with nozzles, and inside is some kind of fire-extinguishing substance and air under pressure. Many extinguishers are small and light enough to be used by one person. However, larger models are mounted on carts for ease of transport.

Not all extinguishers are suitable for all fires. This is because of the kind of substance contained. As such, extinguishers are given marks to identify what type of fire theyare useful against. It is important to know these marks, and know the types of extinguishers that you have on hand.

The first type of fire in the American system is called Class A. These are ordinary combustible fires – paper, plastic, wood, and rubber fires fall under this category. Class A fire extinguishers are marked with a green triangle with a capital letter A. The pictogram for Class A fires is a garbage can and a wood pile burning.

The second type of fire is called Class B. Flammable liquids and gases, like gasoline and hydrogen, are Class B combustibles. They are marked with a red square with a capital letter B. Its pictogram is a fuel container and a burning puddle.

Class C fires are fires that involve energized electrical equipment. These have a blue circle with a capital letter C. The pictogram associated with this class is a garbage can and a wood pile burning.

Class D fire extinguisher is designed for fighting combustible metal fires. Combustible metals include sodium, titanium, magnesium, potassium, steel, calcium, uranium, lithium, and plutonium. These fires are dangerous, as many people are unaware of how to fight them properly. Class D is marked with a yellow star with a capital letter D, and has a pictogram of a burning gear and bearing.

Lastly, Class E fires are related to cooking oils and fats. These kinds of fires commonly occur in homes and restaurants. Class E extinguishers are identified by a black hexagon (six-sided shape) with a capital letter E. A pictogram of a frying pan on fire may be found.

Remember that if a pictogram has a red slash across it, the fire extinguisher is not suitable for it. Using the wrong type of extinguisher can be hazardous, so make sure you know beforehand. As a piece of advice in parting, when the fire gets too big, call the fire department! They are professionals, and are trained to deal with fires. Keep safe, and be prepared.

By: Brian Ayling