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.

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.

water fire extinguisher prices

Water Fire Extinguisher Prices

by with No Comment Types of Fire Extinguisher

Water fire extinguishers are some of the cheapest fire extinguishers we offer. They are one of the most commonly used extinguishers because of their Class A fire rating and low price point. Water fire extinguisher prices depend on what bonus features they offer compared to the others. Often a huge factor is what extinguisher meets your fire rating needs.

Budget Water Additive Fire Extinguishers

This is the lowest cost range of Water fire extinguishers that we offer at the moment. These models are the Water Additive models which have an added wetting agent. Still with great fire extinguishing capabilities and a boosted fire rating due to the added wetting agent, just at a better price.

Standard Water Fire Extinguisher Prices

These fire extinguishers are the standard top-quality CommanderEDGE range. They offer great fire extinguishing ability and come in two great sizes.

Stainless Steel Water Fire Extinguishers

Not only do these Stainless Steel fire extinguishers look fantastic, but they also have extra use. Due to the alloy used to make the Stainless Steel look containing Chromium, these extinguishers also do not rust.

Decorative Water Fire Extinguisher Prices

If the regular models aren’t your style, try these 6L models in Antique Copper and Polished Gold. These extinguishers are very sophisticated and will fit in with any opulent setting.

Available Accessories

We stock the signage that perfectly pairs with Water fire extinguishers. This includes all the decorative designs as well as the photoluminescent sign.

Stands & Storage

We also stock a wide range of Stands and Storage solutions to help with looking after your fire extinguishers. These come in all different sizes and price ranges to help you find the best storage solution for whatever your fire safety storage needs are. These can come as either simple brackets or fully lockable storage boxes.

fire extinguisher prices list

Fire Extinguisher Prices

by with No Comment Types of Fire Extinguisher

Water Fire Extinguisher Prices

Water fire extinguishers are the most accessible fire extinguisher. This is likely because of their low price point and their ability to cover the most common type of fire. Water extinguishers can combat Class A fires. Water fire extinguisher prices vary depending on the model size and their fire rating.

Water Additive Fire Extinguishers

Water Additive fire extinguishers are a step up from the standard Water fire extinguisher. This is due to their increased fire rating which comes from their added wetting agent. They still however can only tackle Class A fires.

AFF Foam Fire Extinguisher Prices

Foam fire extinguishers are a very commonly used type of fire extinguisher. This is because they are good multi-purpose fire extinguishers that can tackle Class A and Class B fires.

Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers

Dry Powder fire extinguishers are very versatile fire extinguishers that are 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 one of the most versatile fire extinguishers on the market.

CO2 Fire Extinguisher Prices

CO2 fire extinguishers are perfect for fighting Class B and Electrical fires. Its properties allow it not to damage electrical equipment, therefore, making it a great choice for situations where electrical fires are a risk.

Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers

Wet Chemical fire extinguishers are perfect for kitchens as they are able to fight Class F fires which are most commonly found in the kitchen. The Wet Chemical extinguishers have an AF fire rating making them equipped to fight Class A or F fires.

MultiCHEM Fire Extinguisher Prices

MultiCHEM fire extinguishers are great multi-class fire extinguishers. Their ABF fire rating means they are able to combat Class A, B and F fires. This makes them a step above Wet Chemical extinguishers and ordinary AFF Foam extinguishers.

water vs water plus vs water mist fire extinguishers

Water vs Water Plus vs Water Mist Fire Extinguishers

by with No Comment Types of Fire Extinguisher

What are the differences of Water vs Water Plus vs Water Mist fire extinguishers? Which is best and what is the best for certain situations?

Water fire extinguishers are the most accessible fire extinguisher, this is likely due to their low price point and their ability to fight the most common type of fire. The Water extinguishers are given an A fire rating, meaning they are capable and suited for extinguishing Class A type fires.

Water Plus extinguishers are an easy upgrade on the regular water extinguishers. They feature a wetting agent which allows them to achieve a greater fire rating. This helps to meet regulations on minimum fire ratings per floor or room of a building. This extinguisher still only features an A fire rating, meaning it can only extinguish Class A fires.

Water Mist extinguishers are another option as an upgrade from the regular water extinguisher. This is due to it having an AF fire rating. This means they are capable of extinguishing Class A and Class F fires. Class F fires are fires involving deep fat frying and spillages of flammable oils near heat sources. These are often found in kitchen environments. The Water Mist extinguisher doesn’t offer an increased A fire rating from the Water extinguisher but instead offers an F fire rating. This is useful if there is a risk of a Class F fire but if not it is a wasted feature.

The Water Plus extinguishers’ boosted A fire rating is great when the fire risk is higher. This is because the boosted fire rating allows the location meet regulations. The increased price point of this extinguisher is justified if the extra A fire rating. This makes it useful when the fire rating is needed to meet regulations of what fire rating is required.

Water extinguishers are the basic option with the lowest price. These are still a great option when the paired with another extinguisher. If the only main fire risks in the area fall into the Class A fire group. When the premise is small, this standard water extinguisher is the perfect choice.

In summary each of these types of extinguisher meet the basic need for a Class A fire extinguisher. The Water Plus and the Water Mist are both upgrades from the standard Water extinguisher in their own ways. The Water Plus offers an increased A fire rating and the Water Mist offers an AF fire rating over the basic A fire rating of the other two extinguishers. So, in the Water vs Water Plus vs Water Mist fire extinguishers debate. There is no ‘best one’ of the three, it is just a case of what is need or a certain scenario.

different types of fire extinguishers

Types of Fire Extinguishers

by with 3 Comments Types of Fire Extinguisher

Introduction

This is a guide into all the different types of fire extinguishers that we offer at Fireology. In this guide we will show you all the different types of fire extinguishers. As well as what are each of their strengths and weaknesses.

It will explain what classes of fire each one of the extinguishers can tackle. Also this will state what extinguisher suits best to each class of fire. This guide shows the benefits of all of these types of extinguishers. As well as why a certain type of extinguisher may be a better fit for you compared to a different type of extinguisher.

Water Fire Extinguishers

Foam Fire Extinguishers

Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers

CO2 Fire Extinguishers

WetCHEM Fire Extinguishers

L2 Powder Fire Extinguishers

MultiCHEM Fire Extinguishers

Monnex Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers

M28 Powder Fire Extinguishers

Water Fire Extinguishers

Water fire extinguishers are the most accessible fire extinguisher. This is likely because of their low price point and their ability to cover the most common type of fire. Water extinguishers are given an A fire rating, meaning they are capable and suited for extinguishing Class A type fires.

Class A fires are fires involving solids such as paper or cardboard, any carbonaceous item fires are defined as Class A fires. This is the most common type of fire as these items are the most combustible and are the most common type of fuel.

Water fire extinguishers do not have the ability to cope with Electrical fires and must not be used on Electrical fires. This type of fire extinguisher is most appropriate for areas that’s biggest fire risk is a solid material and therefore Class A fire.

Foam Fire Extinguishers

Foam fire extinguishers are a very commonly used type of fire extinguisher. This is because they are a good multi purpose fire extinguisher that can tackle Class A and Class B fires. Foam fire extinguishers are given an AB fire rating, meaning they are capable of extinguishing Class A and B Fires.

Fires labelled Class A are fires involving solids such as paper or cardboard, any carbonaceous item. Class B fires are fires involving liquids, these can be any of the likes of: Cleaning fluids, Solvents, Fuels, Inks, Adhesives, Paints. Class B fires only make up for 2% of all fires but make up a massive 21% of all fire deaths.

Class B fires are extremely dangerous, this is why many different types of extinguisher aim to tackle them to try to protect the users. The main key to staying safe from Class B fires is prevention, this is why up to date COSHH assessments are key. The best fire extinguishers to combat Class B fires are Foam and Dry Powder extinguishers.

Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers

Dry Powder fire extinguishers are a very versatile fire extinguisher that is 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. Dry Powder extinguishers are given an ABC fire rating but can also tackle Electrical fires.

Class A fires are fires involving solids such as paper or cardboard, any carbonaceous item. Class B fires are fires involving liquids, these can be any of the such as cleaning fluids, solvents, fuels, or inks. Class C fires are fires involving gases, this could be natural gas, LPG or any other gases forming a flammable or explosive atmosphere.

Class C fires can be tackled with fire extinguishers, the best method of stopping these types of fires is shutting off the supply of the gas. 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. Unlike Foam extinguishers, Dry Powder extinguishers have the ability to be used on ‘running’ flammable liquid fires.

CO2 Fire Extinguishers

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. Class B fires are fires involving liquids, these can be any of the such as cleaning fluids, solvents, fuels, or inks. 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 that can fight Class B fires. CO2 extinguishers are also looked at as more environmentally friendly as CO2 is in the air around us anyway so it does not contribute to global warming. 

WetCHEM Fire Extinguishers

WetCHEM fire extinguishers are perfect for kitchens as they are able to fight Class F fires. WetCHEM extinguishers have an AF fire rating making them equipped to fight Class A or F fires. Class A fires are fires involving solids such as paper or cardboard or any carbonaceous items. Class F fires are fires involving deep fat frying and spillages of flammable oils near heat sources. These fires are often found in kitchen environments.

WetCHEM fire extinguishers offer an “easy clean” design making them ideal for kitchens and maintaining hygiene regulations. This type of fire extinguisher works by creating a layer of foam on the burning oil or fat, stopping the supply of oxygen so the fire isn’t fuelled any further. For tiny Class F fires a fire blanket could be used but in most cases a WetCHEM extinguisher would be recommended.

These types of fire can be extremely dangerous and only a small sized fire would be recommended to be fought with one of these extinguishers.

L2 Powder Fire Extinguishers

L2 Powder fire extinguishers are a unique type of fire extinguisher aimed at combating Class D fires. Class D fires are niche so therefore are not covered by the conventional types of fire extinguishers. Class D fires are fires involving combustible metals such as potassium and magnesium.

Where L2 powder extinguishers thrive is that they are equipped to deal with lithium fires. This is what makes them stand out over M28 extinguishers (which can’t deal with lithium fires). Class D fires are very dangerous as if the wrong extinguishing medium is used, it can actually accelerate the fire. This can happen if a chemical or water extinguisher is used. 

MultiCHEM Fire Extinguishers

MultiCHEM fire extinguishers are a great multi class fire extinguisher. They are given an ABF fire rating, this means they are able to combat Class A, B and F fires. This makes them a step above WetCHEM extinguishers and ordinary Foam extinguishers. This is because they can combat an extra type of fire than each. Class A fires are fires involving solids such as paper or cardboard or any carbonaceous items. Fires labelled Class B are fires involving liquids, these can be any of the such as fuels, or inks. Class F fires are fires involving deep fat frying and spillages of flammable oils near heat sources. This fire is often found in kitchen environments.

The glory of this type of fire extinguisher is how versatile it is and can be. This perhaps could be used as a perfect kitchen/bar fire extinguisher as its abilities are perfect to combat most of the scenarios that could occur.

Monnex Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers

Monnex dry powder fire extinguishers are one of the most trusted high performance dry chemical powder for high risk firefighting applications. This extinguisher is given a BCE fire rating making it equipped to tackle Class B, Class C and Electrical fires.

Fires labelled Class B fires are involving liquids, these can be any of the such as fuels, or inks. Fires labelled Class C are fires involving gases, this could be natural gas or any other gases forming a flammable or explosive atmosphere. Electrical fires aren’t their own class of fire because they are seen as more a form of ignition than fuel.

It is the preferred choice when tackling fires involving hydrocarbon oils, gasoline, diesel and liquefied natural gas. These extinguishers can be used where those materials are stored and or processed. It’s especially effective against industrial chemicals like alcohol, ketones, ethers and esters. These are materials which conventional dry chemical powders find more difficult to knock down.

The grain of the powder inside of Monnex extinguishers is measured and made sure that when projected from the extinguisher it will ensure maximum projection. This allows the operator to maintain a good distance from the fire.

M28 Powder Fire Extinguishers

M28 powder fire extinguishers are a great option when in a laboratory or a workshop environment. Wherever a potential risk of a fire comes from metals. This fire extinguisher is given a D fire rating, this means it can only be used on Class D fires. Class D fires are fires involving combustible metals such as potassium and magnesium.

Where the M28 loses out in comparison to the L2 Powder extinguisher is that it cannot put out lithium fires. This isn’t important if lithium fires aren’t a risk. If lithium fires aren’t a risk you will benefit from the M28’s lower price point. Class D fires are very dangerous as if the wrong extinguishing medium is used, it can actually accelerate the fire. This can happen if a chemical or water extinguisher is used.