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Types of Fire Extinguishers
There are many types of fire extinguishers and possible extinguishing
agents for portable fire extinguishers. Let’s examine them:
Water
It’s the most common kind of fire extinguisher. They are especially
useful for Class A fires.
Foam
They are mostly used in Class B extinguishers. Their main property
is that they can extinguish flammable liquids like gasoline or diesel.
But be careful, you will need some training or experience with this
extinguisher.
Dry Chemical
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Within a dry chemical fire extinguisher you will find two possible
options. The first one is the BC powder, which is commonly used in
the small, fire extinguishers for cars. The second powder is the ABC,
which is useful for fires that involve different kind of fire sources.
Wet Chemical
This is the kind of agent that is only used in Class K fire extinguishers.
The potassium within the agent interacts with the oil, producing a
layer of foam over the burning surface.
Carbon Dioxide (CO)
The advantage of CO is that it can be used on many kind of fires.
They suffocate fires since it reduces the amount of oxygen around
it. But be careful, CO is extremely cold and could burn your hand
if misused.
Halon
This kind of extinguisher agent is being retired of the market since
it isn’t eco-friendly. It was extremely versatile and was specially
used for fires inside planes.
Fluorocarbon
This agent claims to have the same advantage of Halon, but with the
additional advantage of not damaging the environment.
Which Is The Right Place For Your Fire Extinguisher In Home?
If your household has multiple floors, then it is recommended to have
one fire extinguisher per floor, plus one in the kitchen, since it’s
the main source of fires in houses. The other one could be placed
in your garage, which can be easily accessed from outside your home.
You may also place your extinguishers inside fire extinguisher
cabinets, but it depends on your budget and your sense of aesthetics.
How to Choose a Fire Extinguisher?
If you want a fire extinguisher for your home, then you should choose
an appropriate one. If it is for your kitchen, then you need to go
for a Class K extinguisher. In case you need another one for wood
and cloth, then you should go for a Class A extinguisher. Read the
labels carefully before buying.
How to Use a Fire Extinguisher?
Using a fire extinguisher isn’t as simple as point and shoot.
Although it is your only option in case of an emergency, it is better
to have some basic knowledge. First of all, read the instructions.
You may find one or two surprises. And second, call your local fire
brigade and ask about basic training for fire suppression.
How to Maintain the Fire Extinguisher?
Fortunately, fire extinguishers now come with a determined shelf life.
If your fire extinguisher lifetime is ending, then you should consider
buying a new one or refilling it. You can also make a regular fire
extinguisher inspection to check if the extinguisher is still working.
Rechargeable fire extinguishers are also available, but it should
be done by an authorized provider.
Fires can be voracious animals. Since we are not accustomed, we
may not consider them a high risk for our house. But it’s
better to eliminate the probability of suffering a fatality due
to fire. Place fire extinguisher signs and buy one or two portable
fire extinguishers. Maybe, someday, they will save your life.
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