Types of Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are divided into four classifications, according to the type of fire they are designed to eliminate. Extinguishers are available in individual classifications and combinations. Some also have a numerical rating to indicate the amount of fire the extinguisher can handle. There are many types of fire extinguishers, some more common than others.

Class A fire extinguishers are water extinguishers and are designed for fires involving paper, wood, cardboard and plastic.

Class B extinguishers work on fires caused by flammable or combustible fluids such as oil, kerosene, grease and gasoline.

Class C fire extinguishers are designed for fires involving electrical equipment.

Class D fires involve combustible metals, typically in chemical laboratories.

Dry-chemical fire extinguishers can be used for fires in class A, B and C. The dry chemicals are foam or powder of sodium bicarbonate, potassium bicarbonate or monoammonium phosphate.

Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers are suitable for class B and C fires, and unlike the dry-chemical types, they do not leave any damaging residue.

Halon gas extinguishers are good for using on electrical equipment, and they also do not leave residue.