Different Types Of Fire Extinguishers is essential for every business, homeowner, and employee. Each extinguisher is designed to handle a specific class of fire, and using the wrong one can make the situation worse.
Whether you work in an office, factory, restaurant, or warehouse, knowing which extinguisher to use—and how to use it properly—is a key part of fire safety and workplace compliance.
Fire Extinguisher Classes Explained
Fires fall into several categories, and each class requires a specific extinguisher to put it out effectively.
- Class A: Ordinary materials like wood, paper, cloth, and plastics.
- Class B: Flammable liquids such as petrol, paint, and oil.
- Class C: Flammable gases like propane and butane.
- Class D: Combustible metals, including magnesium and aluminum.
- Class F (or Class K in the U.S.): Cooking oils and fats typically used in commercial kitchens.
Choosing the correct extinguisher helps control the fire quickly and safely.
1. Water Fire Extinguishers (Red Label)
Best for: Class A fires – paper, wood, textiles, and plastics.
Avoid for: Electrical fires, flammable liquids, or cooking oils.
Water fire extinguishers cool burning materials and remove the heat element from the fire triangle. They work best in offices, schools, and warehouses where wood, paper, and other combustibles are common.
In short, if your environment contains mainly solid materials, a water extinguisher is a must-have.
2. Foam Fire Extinguishers (Cream Label)
Best for: Class A and Class B fires – solids and flammable liquids.
Avoid for: Electrical or kitchen fires.
Foam extinguishers form a thick layer over the burning surface, cutting off the oxygen supply and preventing re-ignition. As a result, they’re ideal for garages, workshops, and storage areas with paints, fuels, or solvents.
Furthermore, they’re easy to use and leave minimal residue, making cleanup much simpler.
3. CO₂ Fire Extinguishers (Black Label)
Best for: Class B and electrical fires.
Avoid for: Cooking oils or flammable metals.
Carbon dioxide extinguishers remove oxygen from the fire, effectively suffocating it. Since they leave no residue, they’re perfect for offices, server rooms, and areas with computers or electronic equipment.
However, it’s important to use them in well-ventilated spaces, as CO₂ can displace breathable air.
4. Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers (Blue Label)
Best for: Class A, B, and C fires, and some metal fires.
Avoid for: Enclosed areas due to inhalation risks.
Dry powder extinguishers break the chemical chain reaction that fuels a fire. They are versatile and work on a wide range of fire types, making them useful in industrial, automotive, and chemical environments.
Still, because the powder can reduce visibility and irritate airways, these extinguishers are best used outdoors or in open areas.
5. Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers (Yellow Label)
Best for: Class F fires – cooking oils and fats.
Avoid for: Electrical or flammable gas fires.
Wet chemical extinguishers are designed for kitchens. The agent they release cools the oil and creates a soapy barrier that prevents the fire from reigniting.
They’re essential in restaurants, hotels, and catering facilities where deep-fat fryers are used daily.
Fire Extinguisher Color Codes and Identification
Each extinguisher comes with a color-coded label, making it easier to identify during an emergency.
| Type | Color Code | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|
| Water | Red | Class A fires |
| Foam | Cream | Class A & B fires |
| CO₂ | Black | Electrical & Class B fires |
| Dry Powder | Blue | Class A, B, C fires |
| Wet Chemical | Yellow | Class F fires |
Choosing the Right Fire Extinguisher for Your Workplace
Selecting the right extinguisher depends on your environment and the materials you handle. For instance, offices need CO₂ extinguishers for electrical equipment, while kitchens require wet chemical ones.
It’s equally important to carry out regular fire risk assessments and ensure that every extinguisher is inspected on schedule. In addition, employees should receive fire safety training to build confidence in using the equipment correctly.
Maintenance and Fire Safety Compliance
Regular inspections keep fire extinguishers in top working condition. You should perform visual checks monthly and schedule professional servicing at least once a year.
Routine maintenance not only meets fire safety regulations but also guarantees that your extinguishers will function properly in an emergency. Furthermore, training staff on how to spot signs of wear or damage can prevent issues before they escalate.
Understanding the different types of fire extinguishers—and knowing when to use them—can save lives and property. Every workplace should keep the correct extinguishers accessible, clearly labeled, and fully operational.
With consistent maintenance, regular fire safety training, and compliance with safety regulations, you can create a safer environment for everyone.
