What Is a Fire Extinguisher?

A fire extinguisher is a handy device that can be used to fight small fires in the home. These devices are available in different sizes and are suitable for tackling various types of fires. These include class A fires (paper, wood), class B fires (flammable liquids) and class C fires (flammable gases). There are also electrical fire extinguishers that can be used on equipment up to 1,000 Volts such as computers and printers.

These extinguishers contain a dry powder that smothers the fire by coating it with a fine layer of dust, separating it from oxygen and halting the chemical reaction. They are the most common type of extinguisher and can be found in many workplaces, schools, hospitals, laboratories, offices, etc.

They are also available in hand-held models, making them easy to operate for anyone to use. They are generally aimed at classes A and B fires, but some can also be used for class C fires and class F oil fires.

Water spray extinguishers have a nozzle that discharges a fine mist of water onto the fire, cooling it and thus preventing it from burning and spreading. They are the only extinguishers apart from a class F fire extinguisher that can be used on flammable liquids and fats.

They also have a pressure gauge so that the user can see how much fire suppression powder remains and so they know it is time to recharge the device. These extinguishers should be kept in a well-lit area where it is easy to access and not blocked by furniture or anything else that would restrict the ability to use them in an emergency. They should be inspected at least once a month to make sure that the pressure is still up to the manufacturer’s recommended level and the nozzles, hoses and valves are clear of insects, dirt or grease.

Some extinguishers are designed to be used by a team of people, so that each person can tackle a fire from a different direction. These are commonly found in workplaces, as they allow a greater number of people to fight the fire.

There are other devices that are designed for a particular fire type, and some people may have physical limitations that might affect their ability to handle or use an extinguisher in an emergency. People with these limitations should discuss their risk assessment with a doctor or other health professional. It is also a good idea to have a fire escape plan for the workplace or home in case of a fire, and to review it regularly to ensure that everyone knows what to do. This plan should include how to exit the building following an agreed meeting place and who to call for help if they cannot get out of the building themselves. If the escape route is not accessible or not safe, these plans should include how to evacuate the building using alternative routes. Similarly, it is important to test fire alarms frequently and have emergency lighting and a working fire detection system.