Selecting the Correct Fire Extinguisher for Your Needs

Fire extinguishers can be an effective tool, but only when you select the correct type for your needs and learn the proper way to use them.

Portable fire extinguishers can help protect homes and other structures by combatting fires before they get out of hand. However, not all fires and their fuel sources are the same. An extinguisher that isn't rated for the sort of fire or has insufficient power may accomplish nothing or worsen the situation. Additionally, it’s to understand how to effectively use an extinguisher before the need arises.

Fire Classifications

UL classifications make it simple to select the appropriate fire extinguisher for a building's hazards. UL, formerly known as Underwriters Laboratories, provides internationally accepted performance standards for fire extinguisher manufacturers. Extinguishers are labeled with UL classification ratings as part of these regulations, which specify which types of flames they can efficiently combat.

Class A

Combustible materials such as wood, paper, cloth, rubbish and plastics.

Class B

Flammable liquids - other than grease and cooking oils - such as gasoline, petroleum, oil and paint. Gases such as propane and butane are also included.

Class C

Electrical equipment that has been energized, such as appliances, transformers and motors. To aid with extinguishing efforts, the power source must be switched off. Do not attempt to use a fire extinguisher in or on an electronic vehicle. Please call 911 instead.

Common Types of Extinguishers

Chemical Dry

Dry chemical fire extinguishers employ multipurpose compounds that suppress fires of Class A, B and C. Because of their suitability for the most common fire types, these and other "Class ABC" fire extinguishers are the preferred choice in homes and offices.

Carbon Dioxide

Class B and Class C fire extinguishers are carbon dioxide, also referred to as CO2 extinguishers. They take the oxygen out of the fire triangle and inject a cold discharge to cool it down. CO2, unlike water or other extinguishing agents, does not conduct electricity, making it ideal for Class C electrical fires.

Foam and Water

To disperse the heat from the flames, these extinguishers use foam agents. The foam also blankets the fuel, depriving the flames of oxygen. Water and foam extinguishers are exclusively used to put out Class A fires because water in these extinguishers has the potential to spread combustible liquids in Class B fires or raise the shock hazard in a Class C electrical fire.

Extinguisher Maintenance and Inspections

On an annual basis, all fire extinguishers should be visually inspected for damage, corrosion, dents and wear. Hoses must also be inspected for blockage and use and replaced if evidence of fire extinguisher use is discovered.

Be Prepared to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Once activated, a fire extinguisher typically provides less than 30 seconds of use. That’s why proper training and application are critical to ensuring effectiveness.

Whether in your home or place of business, your first action when a fire occurs should be notification:

1. Call the local fire department
2. Activate the alarm system
3. Ensure that everyone begins evacuating the building

If the fire is still in the early stages, consider using a fire extinguisher. Before attempting to suppress the fire, be sure to verify that you have a safe evacuation route out of the building and that the smoke and heat are not too great to keep you from getting to safety.

Remember the acronym PASS when using the extinguisher:

• P – Pull the Pin
• A – Aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire
• S – Squeeze the release handle to activate the extinguisher
• S – Sweep from side to side until the fire appears to be out 

If the fire continues to grow, evacuate the building and allow the fire department to suppress the fire.

This loss control information is advisory only. The author assumes no responsibility for management or control of loss control activities. Not all exposures are identified in this article. Contact your local, independent insurance agent for coverage advice and policy service.