Type of Fire Extinguisher to Use on a Gasoline Fire

Fire extinguishers are divided into classifications according to the kinds of fires they are intended to eliminate. Some extinguishers are designed for more than one type of fire. Class B extinguishers are intended for use on fires caused by flammable or combustible fluids, including gasoline, oil, kerosene and grease fires that can occur in kitchens.

Dry Chemical Extinguishers

The dry chemical fire extinguisher is one type of Class B extinguisher. The dry chemicals consist of an inert solid substance of sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate or monoammonium phosphate.

Dry Chemical Function

Dry chemical extinguishers blanket the fuel with a foam or fine powder, similar to dirt or sand, that smothers the fire.

CO2 Extinguishers

Carbon dioxide, or CO2, is the other type of Class B fire extinguisher. CO2 is a non-flammable gas stored under pressure as a liquid which changes to a mist of tiny dry ice particulates when released.

CO2 Function

This extinguisher eliminates oxygen feeding the fire and replaces it with CO2. The CO2 also absorbs the heat and smothers the fire.

Additional CO2 Advantage

Unlike the dry chemical extinguishers, CO2 extinguishers do not leave any damaging residue.