Differences in fire extinguishers

8/21/2017 (Permalink)

Not all fire extinguishers are created equal. Knowing the difference can save a life!

There are five different types of fire extinguishers, and each one has a specific purpose.  Let's look at each type:

• Type A:  This fire extinguisher is for fast burning combustibles, like wood, paper, plastics, and cloth.  This is great to have around your fireplace or in your bedroom.
• Type B: Best used for flammable liquids, such as gasoline, petroleum, paints, or oils.  You may wish to have this one in your garage.
• Type C:  For electrical fires.  If you have several motors, appliances, or transformers at your home or business, this fire extinguisher would be best.
• Type D:  This fire extinguisher works best for combustible metals, such as aluminium, sodium, magnesium, or potassium.  If you have a metal shop, this is one you should have around.
• Type K or Kitchen:  This is best for cooking oil fires, containing animal or vegetable fats, or grease.  This is ideal for your food preparation areas.

Note:  fire extinguishers must be maintained annually in accordance with local, state, and federal codes and regulations.  Don't take a chance; have your fire extinguisher(s) checked every year by a certified professional.  You can find your local professional in the yellow pages.

In the unlikely event you have to use a fire extinguisher, remember the word PASS, which stands for:

Pull the pin.

Aim at the base of the fire.

Squeeze the trigger slowly.

Sweep the spray from side to side.

If the fire is already fully involved, a fire extinguisher should only be used as a last resort.  Otherwise, get out and call 911 immediately!

Once everyone has been accounted for, and the fire is out, remember that SERVPRO Bedford Park / Burbank is ready to clean up the soot, smoke, and/or the fire extinguisher residue left behind.