If firefighting tools were to join a popularity contest, one of the top contenders would have to be the fire extinguisher. This is because this type of fire fighting tool can be found in almost every home and virtually every business area in this country.

Just as there are different types of fire, there are also different types of fire extinguishers. Knowing the difference between these types is crucial to being successful and effective in putting out a fire. More importantly, using the wrong type can pose a threat to your security.

The different types of fire extinguishers are as follows:

1. Water extinguisher

This type of fire extinguishing device is water-based and is used to extinguish Class A fires. Class A fires are those that start from burning organic solids such as wood, paper, clothing, and soft furnishings. Never use this type for other types of fire. For one, it can only result in the fire getting bigger or worse, if you use this on an electrical fire you risk electrocuting yourself.

2. Foam extinguisher

This is intended for class B fires or fires that originated from superheated flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil, or pain. It would be ideal to buy this type if your business makes use of this type of liquid or if you have a part of your home where you store these materials.

3. Dry powder fire extinguisher

This type is ideal for Class C fires or those started with superheated flammable gases such as methane, propane, or butane.

4. Powder extinguisher

Also known as an ABC extinguisher, it is safe to use for class A, B and C fires, making it the versatile choice among the range of fire fighting tools.

5. Specialized powder fire extinguisher

It is designed to fight class D fires or burning metals such as aluminum, magnesium or titanium.

6. CO2 (carbon dioxide) fire extinguisher

This is the only safe to use on electrical fires. Electrical fires can be the result of many different things, such as appliance or device malfunction, faulty wiring, loose connection, blown fuses, overloaded outlets, etc.

Knowing the different types of fire extinguishers is important due to several factors:

1.Security

Safety is the most important reason, as you don’t want to endanger yourself, your family, or those around you by using the wrong type of extinguisher.

2. Degree of effectiveness

By using the correct type, you have a better chance of successfully suppressing a fire. As mentioned above, using the wrong one can cause a fire to grow bigger instead of smaller.

3. Correct purchase option

If you are familiar with the different types of fire extinguishers, you will know which one is appropriate and suitable to purchase for your home or business. You will be able to protect your business or home more efficiently and you will save money.

Fire safety is a very broad subject. To be safe against fire, you need to know a lot about it. One of the most important things to know is the different types of fire extinguishers, as these firefighting tools can help you put out a fire and save lives.