What is a “proper fire extinguisher”? Are there different kinds of extinguishers for different kinds of fires?

The universal standard extinguisher (good on most small fires you might encounter) for the last 10 to 20 years is the “ABC”, or multi-purpose extinguisher. It can be used on a Class A, B, or C fire.

  • Class A is ordinary combustible materials such as wood, cloth, paper, etc.
  • Class B means flammable liquids such as oil, gasoline, kerosene, etc.
  • Class C refers to the presence of energized electrical circuits (e.g. an electric motor, electrical wiring, etc.)

However, there are several other kinds of extinguishers available which are only effective when used on the kind of fire for which they were intended. These include:

  • Pressurized water - Class A only
  • Carbon dioxide - Class B and C only
  • “B-C” Dry chemical - Class B and C only
  • “K” for cooking and kitchen areas
  • “D” dry chemical - for self-spontaneous igniting/burning fires; usually these involve combustible metals such as magnesium, zirconium, potassium, and sodium

Show All Answers

1. Is there a fee for reviewing plans for alarm or sprinkler systems?
2. Can I speak with a Fire Life Safety Inspector about my building project?
3. What can a business do to improve fire safety in their workplace?
4. What is a “proper fire extinguisher”? Are there different kinds of extinguishers for different kinds of fires?
5. What is a charged extinguisher? How often do extinguishers need to be inspected, tested or serviced?
6. What types of smoke detectors are there?
7. Are Carbon Monoxide Detectors required?