Class F Fires

Understanding Class F Fires and Fire Extinguisher Ratings

by Classes of Fire

Fire safety is a massive concern for everyone, and it’s crucial to be well-informed about the different types of fires and the right tools to combat them. In this blog post, we will focus on Class F fires, which are fires that involve cooking oils and fats. We will also discuss how Class F fire ratings are assigned to fire extinguishers.

What Are Class F Fires?

Class F fires are a specific category of fire involving cooking oils and fats, such as vegetable oil, animal fat, or even butter. These fires are common in kitchens and other areas where cooking or frying is taking place. Unlike other fire classes, Class F fires are particularly dangerous due to the high temperatures and the potential for the fire to quickly spread if not extinguished properly.

Common causes of these fires include:

1. Overheated oil or fat in cooking pans.

2. Splashes of hot oil onto stovetops.

3. Ignition of grease-laden appliances.

Understanding Class F Fire Extinguisher Ratings

To effectively combat Class F fires, it’s essential to use the right fire extinguisher or firefighting tool. Fire extinguishers are labelled with specific fire class ratings to indicate the types of fires they are suitable for. In the case of Class F fires, specific fire extinguishers must be used. These are likely Wet Chemical fire extinguishers or a not-so-common MultiCHEM fire extinguisher. To find out more about these fire extinguishers, check out a more detailed blog post regarding them HERE.

Class F fire extinguisher ratings typically follow a standard system, which makes it easy for users to select the appropriate extinguisher for the scenario in which they will be placed. These ratings are expressed as “Class F” or “F” and are often accompanied by numerical ratings. For example, you might see an extinguisher labelled as “75F.”

The numerical value accompanying the “Class F” designation represents the scale of the extinguisher’s protection. The number directly correlates to the size of the deep fat fryer it can be used against. For example, a 75F-rated fire extinguisher can be used on all deep fat fryers that are 75 litres and below.  It’s crucial to select an extinguisher with a rating appropriate for the size of the kitchen and the potential fire hazards present.

Conclusion

Understanding Class F fires and knowing how to use Class F fire extinguishers is essential for kitchen safety. Whether you’re a professional chef or a home cook, being prepared for a Class F fire can make all the difference in preventing a minor incident from turning into a major disaster. Always check the fire extinguisher’s rating when choosing a fire extinguisher for a commercial or industrial kitchen.

By following these guidelines and being informed about Class F fires. Hopefully, this can give you the information you need to keep your kitchen and cooking areas safe.

Class D Fires

Understanding Class D Fires: Flammable Metal Fires and Their Extinguishing

by Classes of Fire

When it comes to fire safety, it’s crucial to be well-informed about the different classes of fires and the appropriate methods to combat them. In this blog post, we’ll focus on Class D fires, which involve combustible metals and their extinguishment, including the use of specialist fire extinguishers.

Understanding Class D Fires

Class D fires are unique and can be extremely hazardous due to the involvement of combustible metals. These metals include magnesium, titanium, aluminium, sodium, and potassium, among others. When ignited, they burn at extremely high temperatures and can release flammable gases, making them challenging to extinguish with conventional methods.

Class D fires are commonly found in industrial settings, such as manufacturing plants, laboratories, and facilities that handle or store these metals. They can also occur in areas where metal dust is prevalent, such as metalworking shops.

Lithium Fires

Lithium fires are classed as Class D fires. However, Lithium-ion battery fires are not. These can commonly get mixed up. It is important to understand the difference for the safety of yourself and others around you. Lithium fires and lithium-ion battery fires are very different beasts and each has their own problems when it comes to extinguishing.

Lithium fires usually involve pure lithium metal, which is highly reactive when exposed to air or water. These fires are particularly challenging to extinguish due to the intense heat generated during combustion. Specialist L2 Dry Powder fire extinguishers must be used to smother the flames and prevent re-ignition. Unlike other Class D fire extinguishers, the L2 Dry Powder fire extinguisher can handle lithium fires. Lithium fires may occur in environments where lithium is stored or processed, such as laboratories or manufacturing facilities.

When a lithium-ion battery fails, it can release highly flammable electrolytes and gases. Extinguishing these fires requires specialised knowledge and equipment. This often involves the use of their own specialist fire extinguishers specifically designed for lithium-ion battery fires. These fires can occur in various settings where lithium-ion batteries are used, including electric vehicles, consumer electronics, and industrial equipment. To find out more information regarding Lithium-ion battery fires, find our in-depth blog post HERE.

Specialist Fire Extinguishers for Class D Fires

Combatting a Class D fire requires a specialist fire extinguisher designed to tackle the difficult and dangerous class of fire. The most commonly used extinguisher and the one that we offer is the L2 Dry Powder fire extinguisher. Unlike normal Dry Powder fire extinguishers, L2 extinguishers can only be used to fight Class D and Electrical fires. To learn more about the L2 Dry Powder extinguisher and other types of fire extinguishers, find our detailed blog post HERE. 

When facing a Class D fire, it’s essential to use the appropriate extinguisher for the specific metal involved. 

In conclusion, understanding Class D fires and having access to specialist fire extinguishers is crucial for the safety of individuals and the protection of valuable assets in environments where combustible metals are present. Being well-prepared and knowledgeable about the correct fire extinguishing methods can make a significant difference. This can help prevent disaster and ensure a safer workplace.

Class C Fires

Class C Fire Extinguisher: What You Need to Know About Flammable Gas Fires

by Classes of Fire

Understanding Class C Fires and How to Protect Against Them

When it comes to fire safety, choosing the right extinguisher for the specific type of fire can make all the difference. One important—but sometimes overlooked—category is fires fuelled by flammable gases, known as Class C fires. These fires involve gases such as propane, methane, and butane, which can ignite quickly and pose serious risks.

In this article, we’ll explain what Class C fires are, why specialised extinguishers are necessary, and how to safely use them.

What Are Class C Fires?

Class C fires occur when flammable gases catch fire. These gases can spread flames rapidly, creating dangerous situations in various settings, including:

  • Industrial environments like chemical plants and gas storage facilities
  • Laboratories where gases are in use
  • Homes that rely on propane or natural gas appliances

Some common flammable gases involved in Class C fires include:

  • Propane (commonly used in grills and heaters)
  • Butane (found in lighters and portable stoves)
  • Methane (the main component of natural gas)
  • Hydrogen (used in manufacturing and fuel cells)
  • Acetylene (used in welding)

Recognising the presence of these gases and understanding their fire hazards is crucial for effective prevention and response.

Which Fire Extinguishers Are Suitable for Class C Fires?

Using the wrong extinguisher on a Class C fire can worsen the situation or even cause explosions. Water or foam-based extinguishers should be avoided entirely. Instead, the following types are recommended:

  • Dry Powder (ABC) Extinguishers: Versatile and widely available, these extinguishers use powders like monoammonium phosphate to tackle Class A (solids), B (liquids), C (gases), and electrical fires.
  • Monnex Dry Powder Extinguishers: Designed for high-risk industrial areas, Monnex extinguishers are highly effective on flammable liquids, gases, and electrical fires with a strong BCE rating.
  • Clean Agent Extinguishers: These extinguishers deploy gases such as Halon or FM-200 to suppress fires without leaving residues, making them ideal for sensitive environments like data centres while being effective on Class C fires.

How to Use a Class C Fire Extinguisher Safely

If you encounter a fire involving flammable gases, it’s important—if it can be done safely—to isolate the gas supply first. Without a fuel source, the fire becomes much easier to extinguish, following the principles of the fire triangle.

Once the gas is isolated, use the PASS method to operate the extinguisher:

  1. Pull the pin to unlock the extinguisher.
  2. Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire (not the flames).
  3. Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent.
  4. Sweep the nozzle side to side until the fire is fully out.

If the fire is large, spreading quickly, or you feel unsafe, evacuate immediately and call emergency services. Never risk your safety.

Why It’s Important to Have a Class C Fire Extinguisher

Though less common than fires involving solids or liquids, Class C fires can escalate rapidly and cause significant damage. Having a suitable extinguisher nearby, along with the knowledge of how to use it, can prevent a small incident from turning into a disaster.

Final Tips for Class C Fire Preparedness

If your environment involves flammable gases, make sure you:

  • Know which gases are present.
  • Choose extinguishers specifically rated for Class C fires.
  • Regularly maintain and check your extinguishers.
  • Train staff or household members on how to respond effectively.

Fire safety is a shared responsibility—protect your people, property, and peace of mind.

Frequently Asked Questions About Class C Fire Extinguishers

Q1: What are Class C fire extinguishers used for?
They are designed to extinguish fires caused by flammable gases like propane, methane, butane, and hydrogen, stopping the chemical reaction without increasing danger.

Q2: Can water or foam extinguishers be used on Class C fires?
No. Water and foam can spread flammable gases or cause dangerous reactions. Use dry powder or clean agent extinguishers instead.

Q3: How do ABC and Monnex extinguishers differ?
ABC dry powder extinguishers are general-purpose for solids, liquids, gases, and electrical fires. Monnex extinguishers are industrial-grade powders with superior effectiveness for flammable liquids, gases, and electrical hazards.

Q4: When do I need a Class C extinguisher?
If you store or work with flammable gases—such as in welding shops, labs, kitchens with gas appliances, or gas storage—you should have a Class C-rated extinguisher nearby.

Q5: How often should I service a Class C extinguisher?
Visually inspect monthly and have a professional service annually. Replace or recharge after use.

Q6: Are clean agent extinguishers good for Class C fires?
Yes, especially in sensitive locations like server rooms where residue from powder extinguishers is undesirable.

Class B Fires

Understanding Class B Fires:  Prevention and Extinguishing

by Classes of Fire

When it comes to fire safety, understanding the different classes of fires is crucial for effective prevention and response. Class B fires, often referred to as flammable liquid fires, are a common type of fire hazard. In this informative blog post, we’ll explore what a Class B fire is, its causes, and the fire extinguishers that can be used to combat them.

What Is a Class B Fire?

Class B fires are fires involving flammable liquids. These can include a wide range of liquids, such as gasoline or oil. These types of fires are characterised by their ability to spread rapidly, producing intense flames and potentially hazardous situations. They can occur in various settings, from industrial facilities to homes, making it essential to be prepared for such emergencies.

Causes of Class B Fires

Class B fires can be sparked by various factors, including:

1. Spills and Leaks: Accidental spills or leaks of flammable liquids are common causes of these types of fires. Even a small spill can ignite if exposed to a spark or open flame.

2. Electrical Faults: Faulty wiring or electrical equipment can produce sparks that ignite nearby flammable liquids.

3. Human Error: Careless handling of flammable substances, such as smoking near fuel storage areas, can lead to flammable liquid fires.

4. Equipment Malfunctions: Mechanical failures in machinery that handle or store flammable liquids can cause fires.

Extinguishing Class B Fires

When dealing with a Class B fire, choosing the right fire extinguisher is crucial for effective suppression. There are a few types of fire extinguishers suitable for flammable liquid fires:

1. Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Fire Extinguishers: CO2 extinguishers displace oxygen, suffocating the fire. They are highly effective for Class B fires and leave no residue, making them ideal for use around sensitive equipment. These extinguishers can also be used against Electrical fires, making them very useful.

2. Foam Fire Extinguishers: Foam extinguishers create a barrier over the surface of the flammable liquid, cutting off its oxygen supply and cooling the fire simultaneously. They are suitable for Class A and Class B fires.

3. Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher: Dry Powder extinguishers release a fine chemical powder onto the fire. This powder interrupts the fire’s chemical reaction by smothering the flames and preventing oxygen from reaching the fuel source. Dry powder extinguishers are effective against Class A, B, C and Electrical fires.

3. Clean Agent Fire Extinguishers: Clean agents work by interrupting the chemical reaction without leaving any residue. They are ideal for flammable liquid fires and are environmentally friendly.

Conclusion

Understanding Class B fires and having the right fire extinguisher on hand is essential for effective fire safety. Whether at home or in the workplace, being prepared for these types of fires can save lives and property. 

Always ensure that your fire extinguishers are up to date and regularly inspected and that you and those around you are familiar with their proper use in case of a fire-related emergency. By being informed and prepared, you can help protect yourself and potentially your loved ones against the devastating consequences of flammable liquid fires.

Class A Fires

Understanding Class A Fires: Prevention and Safety Measures

by Classes of Fire

Fire safety is a critical aspect of protecting lives and property, and one of the key components of fire safety is understanding the different classes of fires. In this blog post, we will explore Class A fires, which are one the most common types of fires. We’ll discuss what they are, the materials that fuel them, and most importantly, how to prevent and extinguish them.

What is a Class A Fire?

Class A fires are fires that involve ordinary combustibles, such as wood, paper, cloth, and plastics. These materials leave behind ash when burned, making them relatively easy to identify. Understanding the fuel source is crucial when it comes to selecting the right fire extinguisher and firefighting methods.

Common Fuel Sources for Class A Fires

1. Wood: The most common fuel for this type of fire is wood. This includes anything from furniture to building materials.

2. Paper: Paper, including books, documents, and cardboard, can ignite easily and sustain a fire.

3. Cloth: Fabrics, clothing, curtains, and upholstery are all potential fuel sources.

4. Plastics: Many everyday items, like plastic containers, toys, and even some electronics, can contribute to Class A fires.

What is a Class A Fire Extinguisher Used For?

A Class A fire extinguisher is a fire extinguisher designed specifically for tackling Class A fires, which involve ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, cloth, and plastics. This could be the likes of a Water fire extinguisher, Foam fire extinguisher or Powder fire extinguisher. All of the types of extinguishers can tackle Class A fires. To learn more about these types of extinguishers, check out our blog post HERE.

When you encounter a Class A fire, it’s essential to use the right extinguisher, as using the wrong type can make the situation worse. A fire extinguisher’s primary purpose is to quickly and effectively suppress fires safely.

Preventing Class A Fires

Prevention is the best approach to dealing with Class A fires. Here are some essential fire prevention tips:

1. Proper Storage: Store flammable materials safely. Keep wood, paper, and plastics away from heat sources and open flames.

2. Electrical Safety: Ensure that electrical wiring and outlets are in good condition, and avoid overloading circuits.

3. Smoking Safety: Be cautious when smoking, and dispose of cigarette butts in designated containers.

4. Kitchen Safety: In the kitchen, be mindful of cooking and never leave a hot stove unattended.

Extinguishing Class A Fires

When it comes to extinguishing Class A fires, using the correct fire extinguisher that is designed specifically for them is essential. Follow these steps:

1. Pull: Pull the pin to unlock the extinguisher.

2. Aim: Aim the nozzle or hose at the base of the fire.

3. Squeeze: Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent.

4. Sweep: Sweep the nozzle or hose from side to side to ensure that the fire is completely extinguished.

Conclusion

Class A fires can be hazardous if not handled correctly. Prevention and proper fire safety measures are key to minimising the risk of such fires.

Understanding the basics of these fires and how to use the correct fire extinguisher for Class A fires can make a significant difference in your safety and the safety of those around you. Stay informed, stay safe, and be prepared for any fire emergency.

what type of fire is a fire blankets used for

Fire Blankets: A Must-Have Safety Tool for Every Home and Workplace

by Information

Fire blankets are an essential safety tool that often goes unnoticed until a fire emergency strikes. These simple yet effective devices play a crucial role in fire prevention and suppression. In this blog post, we will explore what fire blankets are, how they work, and the various ways in which they are used to protect lives and property.

What Are Fire Blankets?

A fire blanket is a piece of fire-resistant fabric, typically made from materials such as fibreglass or a specially treated wool. They are designed to extinguish small fires by cutting off the fire’s oxygen supply, thus smothering the flames. Fire blankets are compact and easy to use, making them an ideal tool for quickly responding to early-stage fires.

How Do Fire Blankets Work?

The fundamental principle behind the effectiveness of a fire blanket is suffocation. When a fire blanket is placed over a fire, it deprives the flames of oxygen, which is essential for combustion. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how fire blankets work:

1. Identify the fire: Ensure that it’s safe to use a fire blanket on the fire, and if it’s a small, contained fire like a grease fire in the kitchen.

2. Pull the fire blanket from its storage pouch or container.

3. Hold the corners of the fire blanket and approach the fire carefully.

4. Gently lay the blanket over the fire, covering it completely and sealing off the flames’ oxygen supply.

5. Leave the fire blanket in place until the fire is extinguished or until professional help arrives.

It’s important to remember that fire blankets work most effectively on small fires. For larger fires, a fire extinguisher or immediate evacuation should be the primary course of action.

Uses of Fire Blankets

1. Kitchen Fires: One of the most common uses of fire blankets is in the kitchen to extinguish grease fires. They are invaluable for containing small stovetop fires and preventing them from spreading.

2. Fire Safety in Laboratories: Fire blankets are often used in laboratories to extinguish small chemical fires. They can also be used to protect individuals who might be in danger during a lab experiment gone wrong.

3. Emergency Fire Blanket: Fire blankets are essential components of fire safety kits, both at home and in the workplace. They are placed in strategic locations for easy access during fire emergencies.

4. Welding and Industrial Settings: A fire blanket can be used to protect against sparks, splatter, and small fires in welding and industrial settings, where hot metal and open flames are common.

5. Emergency Evacuations: A fire blanket can also be used to wrap around individuals in emergency situations to protect them from smoke and heat while exiting a burning building.

Most Common Use

Fire blankets are most commonly used to tackle kitchen fires, especially pan fires, categorised as Class F fires. These fires typically involve cooking oils, fats, and greases and are prevalent in household kitchens. When a kitchen fire erupts, a fire blanket can be quickly and effectively deployed to smother the flames.

This type of fire is the common use of these fire blankets due to them being the perfect size for the blanket to handle. The pan offers a contained location for the fire, and after it is covered by the blanket, it makes the fire very restricted and keeps the user safe.

Gently placing the fire blanket over the flaming pan, prevents the fire’s access to oxygen, extinguishing it without the need for water or other potentially dangerous extinguishing agents. Using a fire blanket in this manner not only helps prevent the fire from spreading but also minimizes the risk of injury and property damage. Kitchen fires are a common scenario where a fire blanket can prove its worth, making it an indispensable safety tool for every home.

Our Fire Blankets

The fire blankets that we offer at Fireology come in three varying sizes. These are Small (1m x 1m), Medium (1.2m x 1.2m) and Large (1.8m x 1.2m).

Conclusion

A fire blanket is a simple yet highly effective tool for fire safety. It offers a quick and easy way to suppress small fires and protect individuals in emergency situations. Every home and workplace should have one of these blankets readily available and regularly checked to ensure they are in good condition. 

Remember, while fire blankets are valuable, they are not a substitute for other fire safety measures like smoke detectors and fire extinguishers. Fire safety is a collective effort. Still having the right tools and knowledge is essential for preventing and managing fire emergencies effectively.

fire alarm beeping

Why Is My Fire Alarm Beeping?

by Information

We’ve all experienced it at some point, the annoying, persistent beeping of a fire alarm. It’s a sound that can instantly raise your heart rate and send you on a mission to stop it. But before you disable the alarm or simply cover your ears, it’s essential to understand why your fire alarm is beeping. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the common reasons behind those beeps and what you can do about them.

1. Low Battery Alert

One of the most common reasons for a beeping fire alarm is a low battery. Fire alarms, whether hardwired or battery-powered, have a built-in feature to alert you when their batteries are running low. This warning is crucial because a non-functional alarm can’t protect you in the event of a fire. When you hear a regular, intermittent beep, it’s time to replace the battery.

Solution: Replace the battery promptly with a fresh one. It’s a simple and effective way to ensure your alarm continues to keep you safe.

2. End-of-Life Warning

Fire alarms don’t last forever. After a certain period, typically around 10 years, they begin to lose their effectiveness. To inform you that it’s time for a replacement, the alarm will emit a consistent, chirping sound.

Solution: Replace your fire alarm if it’s reached its end-of-life or expiration date. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for the lifespan of your specific alarm.

3. Dust and Debris

Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate inside your fire alarm over time. This buildup can interfere with its sensors and trigger false alarms or beeping.

Solution: Regularly clean your fire alarm by gently vacuuming or blowing out dust. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for cleaning to avoid damaging the device.

4. Environmental Factors

Extreme temperatures, humidity, or even cooking smoke can sometimes set off your fire alarm. While it may be alarming, these situations are not necessarily indicative of a fire emergency.

Solution: Try to ventilate the area, open windows, or use fans to disperse smoke or fumes. Consider relocating your alarm to a less sensitive location if false alarms persist.

5. Malfunction or Wiring Issues

Sometimes, fire alarms can malfunction or have wiring problems, leading to false beeping or alarm failure.

Solution: If you’ve ruled out other causes and the beeping continues, it may be time to consult a professional technician to inspect and repair the alarm or wiring.

Fire Alarm Beeping 3 Times?

When your fire alarm beeps, the number of beeps and their pattern often convey specific information about the alarm’s condition or the type of threat it has detected. If your fire alarm is beeping three times, it typically indicates a different situation compared to a single beep.

Three beeps might indicate a different issue. In some fire alarm models, three beeps can signal a malfunction or a sensor fault. This type of alarm pattern suggests that the alarm itself may be experiencing a problem, which could affect its ability to detect smoke or fire accurately. When you hear three beeps, it’s essential to investigate further to determine the cause.

If you hear three beeps, it’s advisable to consult the alarm’s user manual or contact a professional technician to diagnose and resolve any underlying problems. Ignoring any type of alarm signal can put your safety at risk, so always take them seriously and take appropriate action.

Conclusion

A beeping fire alarm is a signal that it’s time to take action. Whether it’s a low battery, end-of-life warning, or other issues, it’s essential not to ignore the sound. Understanding why your fire alarm is beeping empowers you to respond appropriately, ensuring your safety and peace of mind. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to these warnings will help keep your home safe from fire hazards.

Kitchen Fires

Kitchen Fires: Causes, Prevention, and Safety Tips

by Information

The kitchen is often considered the heart of the home, a place where families gather to prepare and share meals. However, it is also one of the most common areas for household fires to occur. In this informative blog post, we will explore the causes of kitchen fires, how to prevent them, and important safety tips to keep you and your loved ones safe.

Causes of Kitchen Fires  

1. Cooking Unattended:

One of the leading causes of kitchen fires is leaving food unattended on the stove or in the oven. A momentary distraction can quickly lead to disaster.

2. Grease and Oil Fires:

Cooking with oil can be dangerous, as it can easily ignite if it becomes too hot. Grease fires can spread rapidly and are difficult.

3. Flammable Objects Near the Stove:

Towels, pot holders, paper towels, and other flammable materials left too close to a hot burner can catch fire.

4. Electrical Appliances:

Faulty or misused electrical appliances, such as toasters, microwaves, or coffee makers, can also be a source of kitchen fires.

5. Gas Leaks:

Stoves that use gas can be dangerous if there is a leak. Gas leaks are often accompanied by a strong odour, but they can sometimes go unnoticed until a fire occurs.

Preventing Kitchen Fires

1. Stay in the Kitchen:

Whenever you are cooking, stay in the kitchen to keep an eye on the food. Avoid leaving the kitchen unattended, especially when using the stovetop or oven.

2. Maintain Appliances:

Regularly inspect and maintain your kitchen appliances, such as stoves, ovens, and microwaves, to ensure they are in good working condition.

3. Keep Flammable Objects Away:

Keep flammable materials like dish towels, pot holders, and paper towels away from the stove and other hot surfaces.

4. Use Oil with Caution:

When cooking with oil, use a deep fryer thermometer to monitor the oil’s temperature. Never overheat it, and always keep a lid nearby to smother any flames if a grease fire occurs.

5. Install a Smoke Detector:

Make sure your kitchen is equipped with a smoke detector, and test it regularly to ensure it is functioning correctly.

Safety Tips for Kitchen Fires

1. Know How to Use a Fire Extinguisher:

Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and know how to use it. The PASS (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep) method is the most common technique for using a fire extinguisher.

2. Never Use Water on Grease Fires:

Water can cause a grease fire to spread rapidly. Instead, use a fire extinguisher or cover the pan with a lid to smother the flames.

3. Use a Fire Extinguisher or a Fire Blanket:

If a small fire breaks out, you can use an appropriate fire extinguisher (likely Class F) or a fire blanket to smother the flames.

4. Call 911:

If a fire gets out of control, evacuate your home immediately and call 911 for professional help.

Class F Fires

Class F fires are a specific category of fires primarily involving cooking oils and fats, particularly in commercial kitchens and restaurants. These fires are characterised by the ignition of hot cooking oils and fats, which can quickly become extremely dangerous due to their high temperatures and the potential for splattering and spreading. 

Class F fires pose a unique challenge because they cannot be effectively extinguished with water, as water can cause the burning oil to splatter and spread the flames. Instead, specialised fire suppression systems and extinguishing agents, such as Wet Chemical fire extinguishers, are used to control and extinguish Class F fires safely. 

These extinguishing agents work by cooling the oil and creating a barrier to prevent re-ignition. Proper training and equipment are crucial when dealing with Class F fires to minimise the risk of injury and property damage in commercial kitchen environments.

Conclusion

Kitchen fires are a serious safety concern, but with proper precautions, they can be prevented. Always stay vigilant while cooking, keep your kitchen well-maintained, and know how to respond in case of a fire emergency. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your kitchen remains a safe and enjoyable place for cooking and sharing meals with your loved ones.

Electrical fires

Electrical Fires – How are they caused, and how do we deal with them?

by Information

Electrical fires are fires that originate from issues within electrical systems, equipment, or devices. These fires arise when electrical components experience overheating, electrical arcing, or short circuits, which can, in turn, ignite nearby materials like insulation, wiring, or flammable substances.

How do they occur?

One primary factor contributing to electrical fires is overloading circuits, a scenario in which an excessive number of electrical devices or appliances are connected to a single circuit, resulting in an excessive current flow that overheats the wires and potentially leads to a fire hazard. 

Additionally, faulty wiring poses a substantial risk, particularly in cases of aged or damaged wiring with inadequate insulation or improper installation. Wiring that is exposed, frayed, or corroded can also be very dangerous. Electrical equipment malfunctions, such as defective switches, outlets, or appliances, can also be triggers for fires, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and inspection of electrical systems to prevent these hazardous incidents.

How to identify an electrical fire?

Identifying an electrical fire is crucial for ensuring safety in your home or workplace. There are several key signs to watch for. First and foremost, look for any unusual smell, often described as a burning or melting smell, which may indicate overheating or melting of electrical components. Many people say an electrical fire can emit a fishy scent. This typically means it has just started. The fish odour is caused by electrical components overheating that haven’t begun to burn up. Their heat-resistant chemical coatings can also release a fishy smell when burned.

Also keep an eye out for sparks or flashes of light coming from electrical outlets or appliances, as these can be clear indicators of an electrical fire. If you hear crackling or buzzing sounds near electrical outlets or wiring, it could suggest a potential fire hazard. 

How to deal with electrical fires?

Dealing with these fires requires a cautious and systematic approach to ensure safety.

Stay Calm: The first and most crucial step is to remain calm. Panic can lead to hasty decisions that may worsen the situation.

Cut the Power: Quickly locate the power source and shut it off. This can be done by switching off the circuit breaker or unplugging the affected appliance. Cutting the power supply is essential to prevent further electrical flow to the fire.

Use a Fire Extinguisher: If the fire is small and contained, you can attempt to extinguish it using the correct fire extinguisher, which is designed for electrical fires. Ensure you know how to use the extinguisher properly, following the PASS (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep) technique. For types of fire extinguishers view lower down in this post.

DO NOT Use Water: Never use a standard water fire extinguisher to put out an electrical fire. Water conducts electricity and can lead to electrical shock or the spread of a fire.

Evacuate Safely: If the fire grows beyond your control, or if you are unsure about how to handle it, prioritise your safety and evacuate the premises. Close doors behind you to contain the fire and prevent its spread. Call the fire service immediately from a safe distance.

Wait for Professionals: Even if you believe you have extinguished the fire, it’s essential to wait for the fire department to arrive and confirm that it is safe. Electrical fires can reignite, and professionals have the necessary tools and expertise to handle them.

Remember, safety should always be the top priority when dealing with electrical fires. If in doubt, evacuate and call the professionals. It’s better to be cautious and let trained firefighters handle the situation.

Which fire extinguishers can fight electrical fires?

Electrical fires as we have explained are very dangerous. This means they are more difficult to contain and extinguish. Electrical fires are not their own fire classification which also makes them more difficult to handle. They however can be fought and extinguished with these extinguishers:

Dry Powder – Dry Powder fire extinguishers are very versatile and a main staple in a lot of fire safety setups. These fire extinguishers can be used on Class A, Class B, Class C and Electrical fires making them the most versatile fire extinguisher on the market. Electrical fires aren’t their own class of fire because they are seen as more a form of ignition than fuel. But when Electricity is present, Water must not be used.

CO2 – CO2 fire extinguishers are perfect for fighting Class B fires and Electrical fires. Its properties allow it not to damage electrical equipment so therefore makes it a great choice for situations where electrical fires are a risk. CO2 extinguishers have a B fire rating but can also combat electrical fires. 

Electrical fires aren’t their own class of fire because they are seen as more a form of ignition than fuel. CO2 extinguishers are good as they do not leave a harmful residue behind, this is what makes them desirable compared to a lot of the other extinguishers.

To find out more about these types of extinguishers and all the other types of extinguishers, check out our explanation of all the types HERE.

Conclusion

In conclusion, electrical fires can be incredibly dangerous and potentially life-threatening situations that can arise from various sources, such as faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or damaged appliances. Understanding the causes and being prepared to deal with these fires is crucial for ensuring the safety of yourself and those around you.

By understanding the causes of electrical fires and knowing how to respond effectively, you can significantly reduce the potential harm they pose. Fire safety is a shared responsibility, and being prepared can make all the difference in preventing damage, injuries, and even fatalities.

wrong type of fire extinguisher

What Happens If I Use The Wrong Type Of Fire Extinguisher On A Fire?

by Information

Fire safety is a critical aspect of protecting yourself and your property from the devastating effects of fires. One essential tool in fire safety is the fire extinguisher, but did you know that using the wrong type of fire extinguisher on a fire can have serious consequences? In this blog post, we will explore what happens when you use the wrong type of fire extinguisher on a fire and why it’s crucial to match the extinguisher to the type of fire you’re dealing with.

Understanding Fire Classes

Before delving into the consequences of using the wrong fire extinguisher, it’s essential to understand fire classes. Fires are classified into different categories based on the type of fuel involved. These classes are:

Class A: Fires involving solids such as paper, cardboard or wood. These could also be any other combustible material.

Class B: Fires involving flammable liquids.

Class C: Fires involving flammable gases.

Class D: Fires involving combustible metals, like magnesium or titanium.

Electrical Fires: Not their own class of fire. These fires occur when live electrical equipment is involved in a fire.

Class F: Fires involving cooking oils and fats.

To understand more about types of fires, we have some more information that you might find helpful, HERE.

Using the Wrong Type of Fire Extinguisher 

Now, let’s examine what happens when you use the wrong type of fire extinguisher on a fire:

1. Reduced Effectiveness: The most immediate consequence is reduced effectiveness. Different types of extinguishers are designed to tackle specific fire classes. Using the wrong one means you may not be able to control or extinguish the fire effectively.

2. Fire Escalation: In some cases, using the wrong extinguisher can actually make the fire worse. For instance, using a water-based extinguisher on a grease fire (Class F) can cause the burning oil to splatter, spreading the flames.

3. Safety Hazards: Attempting to extinguish an electrical fire with a water-based extinguisher (Class A) can lead to electric shock and other serious safety hazards.

4. Damage to Property: Using the wrong extinguisher may not only fail to put out the fire but can also lead to extensive property damage. For example, using a Dry Chemical extinguisher on a sensitive electronic device can result in corrosive damage.

5. Toxic Fumes: Some extinguishing agents, when used on the wrong fire class, can produce toxic fumes. This can endanger people nearby and make evacuation necessary.

Choosing the Right Extinguisher

To avoid the consequences of using the wrong fire extinguisher, always follow these guidelines:

1. Know the fire class: Identify the type of fire you’re dealing with, and choose the appropriate extinguisher.

2. Read labels: Fire extinguishers are labelled with the fire classes they are designed for. Make sure that the label is checked before using it.

3. Training: Ensure that you and your family or colleagues are trained in the proper use of fire extinguishers.

Conclusion

Using the wrong type of fire extinguisher on a fire can lead to reduced effectiveness, safety hazards, property damage, and more. It’s crucial to understand fire classes and choose the right extinguisher for the job to maximise safety and minimise the risk of harm. Fire safety is not something to take lightly.