What Are Commercial Fire Extinguisher Ratings?

Do you know which commercial grade fire extinguisher is essential for protecting your commercial building in a fire emergency? If you need help, you’re in the right place! Being aware of each fire extinguisher’s types and ratings can help ensure safety and proper usage when needed. In this blog post, we will discuss commercial grade fire extinguisher ratings to help you figure out which one is right for your situation. Let’s do it!

 

What Are Commercial Fire Extinguisher Ratings?

 

Commercial fire extinguisher ratings are a way to classify their effectiveness against certain types of fires. You’ll see them as a letter followed by a number outlining which fire can extinguish. 

 

The letters denote the type of combustible material that the extinguisher can put out effectively. At the same time, the number describes how large and concentrated the fire can be before becoming uncontrollable.

 

Knowing a fire extinguisher’s rating gives you an idea of its ability to put out fires safely and quickly. This is why it’s so important to purchase one with the appropriate rating for your intended purpose.

 

What Do the Letters Mean in Commercial Fire Extinguisher Ratings?

 

The letters in commercial fire extinguisher ratings categorize fire extinguishers based on the type of materials they can extinguish effectively. For example:

 

  • Class A ratings are for common combustible materials. These include wood, paper, cloth, rubber, and plastic.
  • Class B ratings refer to fires fueled by flammable liquids, such as gasoline or kerosene.
  • Class C fires are related to electrical equipment.
  • Class D are for combustible metals
  • Class K ratings indicate that the fire extinguisher will work on kitchen fires caused by combustible oils and fats.

 

What Do the Numbers Mean in Commercial Fire Extinguisher Ratings?

 

The ratings are made up of two numbers that provide a variety of key pieces of information about the extinguisher. The first number relates to the square footage it will cover, with higher coverage ratings indicating that the extinguisher can cover a larger area in an emergency. The second number is associated with the fire suppression class. This is according to a predetermined standard outlined by NFPA for specific types of fires most commonly encountered in commercial buildings.

 

  • A commercial fire extinguisher with a rating of 2A:10B: C means it is suitable for use on Class A, Class B, and Class C fires. The first number (2A) indicates how much water it holds; 10B means it can discharge 10 square feet of burning material; and C tells you it will work against electrical-based fires.

 

  • A commercial rating of 4A: 80BC indicates the capability of an extinguisher to handle different types of fires. In this rating, 4A stands for the amount of water-based fire intensity approved to be put out, and 80BC is for pressurized dry chemical types. 4A: 80BC on a fire extinguisher tells us that it contains 16.5kg (4.5 gallons) of water and can put out a fire over an area of 80 sq. ft. 

 

The lower the rating, the less firefighting power a commercial fire extinguisher has. Understanding these ratings can help minimize damages and save lives in an emergency.

 

Conclusion

 

In conclusion, the different commercial fire extinguisher ratings are the standard for determining what type of fire extinguisher you should use in specific locations. It is important to know the ratings of each type of fire extinguisher one could use since they vary greatly from one to another.

 

Do your commercial fire extinguishers need servicing? If so, you’ve come to the right place! Click here to get in touch with Fire-Alert, and get started with us today.

Choosing the right fire extinguisher for your home or business is an important decision with serious safety implications. The wrong type of fire extinguisher could mean the difference between a small, contained incident and a major emergency. With so many options on the market today, deciding which type of fire extinguisher is best for you can be hard. So, in this blog post, we’ll go through what factors you need to consider as we discuss how to choose a fire extinguisher.

 

Type of Fire Extinguisher

 

It is important to consider the type of fire extinguisher you need based on the potential risks and class of fire you may face. There are five main classes of fire extinguishers, including A (solids), B (liquids and gasses), C (electrical equipment), D (flammable metals), and K (cooking fats).

 

Identifying the Location

 

Identifying the location of a fire extinguisher is an essential part of choosing the right product for your home or business. Taking time to locate the product can mean the difference between life and death in a fire emergency. Knowing where the extinguisher is located, who has access to it, and what type of device you can save precious seconds in a crisis. 

 

Additionally, it is important to ensure that the fire extinguisher is in an accessible area so that it can be quickly accessed and regularly serviced by a qualified technician.

 

Size and Weight

It is essential to consider the size and weight of a fire extinguisher when selecting residential, commercial, or industrial premises. Properties are often ill-prepared for blazing fires because the fire extinguisher is too large or too heavy for single persons to maneuver alone. 

 

Always choose the size and weight most suitable for your environment. For example, smaller units may suffice if you have minimal space, while larger agencies or facilities may require heavier equipment that can wield greater ease.

 

Certified From a Recognized Testing Laboratory

Fighting an unpredictable fire requires an aptitude and the right hardware. The accredited lab will provide safety confirmation and check several crucial factors like product details, weights, components, performance facts, etc., apart from conducting pressure tests. 

 

All these measures guarantee that the fire extinguisher’s quality is perfect for efficiently tackling fires of any nature. Thus, choosing a standard-listed fire extinguisher through reputed testing institutions for comprehensive security in any emergency is wise.

 

Ease-Of-Use

You should consider ease-of-use when making such decisions to ensure everyone knows how to operate the device in an emergency. For this reason, selecting a user-friendly model is vital, as it will enhance the extinguisher’s effectiveness and allow everyone to use it quickly and efficiently.

 

When choosing a fire extinguisher, make sure that you select one with simple, clear instructions that are easy to understand – even under pressure.

 

Conclusion

 

You should now be better equipped when it comes time to choose a fire extinguisher. Remember that it’s always important to feel confident in the fire extinguisher you buy and ensure it meets the proper environmental standards. 

 

And, if there is still confusion about what type of fire extinguisher you need for your space, it’s always a good idea to contact a professional. They will be able to offer their expert advice and guide you in making the right decision. Good luck!

 

Do you require professional fire extinguisher services? We’d be happy to help! Click here to get in touch with Fire-Alert today.

Installing a smoke detector can be a great way to add a layer of safety and security to your home. Not only will it alert you if there is a fire, but it also helps to give you peace of mind when leaving your house for extended periods. While installing one may seem intimidating, it is surprisingly simple with the right knowledge and supplies. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to install a smoke detector.

 

What Tools Do You Need to Install a Smoke Detector?

This process can be relatively easy, depending on your smoke detector type. Hard-wired smoke detectors require certain tools to deal with the extra wiring, and may also require a voltage tester. However, they do provide long-term safety and security. 

On the other hand, battery-operated detectors are much easier to install. They don’t require additional wiring or special tools beyond a screwdriver.

 

How to Install a Smoke Detector

 

Step 1: Determine the Location

The first step in installing a smoke detector is determining where it will be mounted. You should take care to ensure it is placed at the highest point of the ceiling for maximum efficiency and coverage. 

Smoke detectors need open-air spaces to detect smoke particles as quickly as possible. Therefore, mounting them next to vents or windows or in an area where they may get blocked could lead to decreased effectiveness.

 

Step 2: Turn Off The Power 

It’s important to first turn off the power for hard-wired units. If not done correctly, it could lead to dangerous consequences like electrocution. 

So, to safeguard yourself and others in the home, shut off the electricity in the circuit breaker or fuse box before installing a hard-wired smoke detector.

 

Step 3: Install Smoke Detector’s Bracket

First, locate the mounting hardware included with your smoke detector and use it to secure the bracket against the wall or ceiling. It’s important to ensure it’s secure so it can hold the weight of the device and its battery in addition to any external components. 

Be sure to use appropriate screws. For example, you should use plastic anchors for drywall or plasterboard.

 

Step 4: Connect Wires and Batteries

This step requires you to use some tools with your smoke detector, such as a power drill, screws, and special wiring connectors. Start by positioning the wires on their respective terminals, ensuring they fit snugly. Once set, secure them tightly using the screws provided. 

And for battery-operated units, simply insert your batteries and test the unit for proper operation.

 

Step 5: Attach to the Base

Attach the base of the smoke detector to the ceiling or wall in the area that you pre-marked with a mounting plate. Secure it with the screws provided and ensure it is secure and level. 

Use an angled drill bit if needed, and use an electrical junction box if specific wiring instructions require it. After securely fastening the base, twist your smoke detector on top of it.

 

Step 6: Test Your Smoke Detector

Once all is done, press and hold the test button for a few seconds on the detector. A loud beep should follow to confirm that your smoke detector is in working order. 

After verifying that the alarm is functioning, you can rest assured that your home and family are now equipped with reliable fire safety protection. 

 

Conclusion

Knowing how to install a smoke detector is important, especially when considering the many dangers of fire. It will alert you to potential danger, ultimately protecting the safety of your home, family, and pets, and it can also provide peace of mind. The process can be done with relative ease with careful preparation and consideration. Good luck, and stay safe!

Need a hand with some of your other fire safety equipment as well? We’ve got you covered! Click here to get in touch with Fire-Alert, and start enjoying the benefits of our fire extinguisher services today.

Having a comprehensive fire suppression system in place is essential when it comes to the safety of your building and any property or personnel within. Fire extinguishing systems can come in many different forms, all designed with specific purposes for tackling different types of blazes. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the most common types of fire suppression systems and explain how each one works to help you make an educated decision when selecting the best option for your location.

 

Water-Based

These systems use pressurized water to control and extinguish fires, making them an effective and affordable solution for commercial properties. In addition, these systems are designed to be easy to install and require minimal maintenance over time – making them an ideal choice for business owners short on time or resources. 

With the proper installation by professionals, a water-based fire suppression system can give you peace of mind that you and your facility are prepared for anything.

 

Clean Agent

Clean agent fire suppression systems are non-toxic and won’t leave residue behind to clean up, preventing damage to expensive equipment or lost time due to flooring replacement. They are also fast-acting, which helps minimize the potential impact of a fire on both property and personnel. 

Clean agent fire suppression system installation is relatively straightforward and serves as reliable protection while being cost-efficient in the long run.

 

Dry Chemical

Dry chemical fire suppression systems are a great choice for small businesses to help minimize property damage due to fires. These systems use a precisely measured discharge of materials designed to knock down and suppress flames rapidly, yet leave a minimal residue. 

For businesses where downtime is disruptive, it’s essential to have a reliable system on hand. A dry chemical fire suppression will provide effective protection that can give you peace of mind in uncertain times.

 

Wet Chemical

This type of fire suppression system is best for places like commercial kitchens. A wet chemical system produces a foam when it mixes with oils and fats, cooling the area and keeping it from reigniting.

The nice thing about a wet chemical fire suppression system is that the liquid chemicals tend to be easier to clean up than dry chemical systems.

 

Carbon Dioxide (Co2)

CO2 systems are effective on Class A, B, and C fires, and provide complete structural fire protection without damaging sensitive electronic equipment – unlike water-based systems. 

Not only does this lead to lower repair costs, but since CO2 is non-conductive, you can use live electrical equipment with it. Furthermore, the rapid discharge results in quicker extinguishment time, leading to minimal losses.

 

Conclusion

The types of fire suppression systems are useful in different ways and for different purposes. There are many factors to consider when deciding which type of system is right for your business or building, including the size of the space, the type of materials present, and the layout of the facility. By having the right type of system in your building, you can help ensure that everyone will be safe in the event of a fire.

It’s important to keep all of your fire safety equipment in good condition, including fire extinguishers. If you are in need of fire extinguisher services, click here to contact Fire-Alert – we’d be happy to help you out!

Having fire extinguishers in place for your business or workspace is of the utmost importance. But where should you keep them? Fire prevention and protection are key components to ensuring the safety of everyone who visits or works in that space. However, knowing where to place the fire extinguisher so that it is easily accessible and visible when needed can make all the difference. In this blog post, we’ll go over 5 tips for better fire extinguisher placement. Let’s go!

 

1) Near the Kitchen

Placing a fire extinguisher near the kitchen can be essential in a kitchen fire. It’s important to pick a location that is easy to access should an emergency arise yet inconspicuous enough to avoid interfering with day-to-day activities. 

The ideal spot is possibly on the base of a wall between two doorways, low enough for easy reach but also out of reach from children or pets who may accidentally activate it. Further away from any heat sources like an oven would also be ideal, as long as you still have a clear path toward the exit.

 

2) Near the Exit

In any workplace, an emergency plan should include a clearly defined exit path and gathering spot. It’s also important to place fire extinguishers throughout the business in easy-to-reach locations near each exit. 

This way, if a fire starts, everyone can quickly access a fire extinguisher near the immediate exit of the building or room. Maintenance personnel must also be sure to check these fire extinguishers regularly to ensure their effectiveness and readiness for use if necessary.

 

3) In Each Bedroom

As a homeowner, it’s important to be prepared for the worst. That’s why it can be a good idea to have a fire extinguisher in each bedroom of your home. 

Consider hanging the extinguisher on the wall near any exit or doorway so that you can easily find and access it – especially if you ever have to deal with a fire during the night. It certainly doesn’t hurt to have one within arm’s reach while sleeping so your family is always safe and secure, no matter the situation.

 

4) In the Garage

In the event of a car fire, it is essential to have a fire extinguisher handy. The best place to store the fire extinguisher in the garage is on a wall near the exit, so it’s easily accessible in an emergency. 

Make sure that no other items are placed above or below the fire extinguisher, and it is kept out of harm’s way from getting damaged by any objects or dirt. Additionally, keep an eye on expiration dates to ensure that your fire extinguisher is regularly checked and up-to-date for maximum effectiveness.

 

5) On Every Floor of Your Home/Office

A fire extinguisher in your home, office, or any other type of space is an important safety measure, so you should place them appropriately on each floor. They should also be easily accessible and visible at all times. 

It may not always be easy to reach a fire extinguisher located on another level of your home immediately in the event of an emergency. Keeping one per floor helps ensure that your response time is quick if a fire breaks out.

 

Conclusion

All in all, placing fire extinguishers is important to think about and strategize. By placing them in easily accessible and visible locations, you can reduce the risk of injury or property damage in the case of a fire.

So, considering trying these tips for better fire extinguisher placement today – they may make all the difference in the event of an emergency.

Do you know if your fire extinguishers are in good working order? If not, we can help! Click here to get in touch with Fire-Alert today.

Every home or business should have a fire safety plan in place. It is important to ensure that everyone living and working in the building is aware of it so that they can act quickly in an emergency. But ensuring your fire safety plan stays up-to-date is also key – after all, regulations change over time, and you may need to make regular updates. So, how often should you review your fire safety plan? Let’s find out!

How Often Should You Review Your Fire Safety Plan?

Fire safety planning is critical for the safety of your home and business. How often you should review it depends on various factors, such as the size of your building and the frequency of changes to fire prevention systems. Still, it is typically recommended that you go through your plan at least once per year to keep up with any necessary updates. 

Depending on where you live, your local fire department may also offer free services like planning reviews and fire drills – be sure to take advantage of these resources as they can help ensure that everyone involved knows exactly how to respond in an emergency.

Things to Look For When Reviewing Your Fire Safety Plan

When reviewing your fire safety plan, it is important to ensure all the steps are clear, properly explained, and updated if necessary. It’s also important to ensure you have the correct contact information for fire departments and emergency services in the area. Documented evacuation plans and a visible meeting place should also be part of any thorough review process. 

You should also be sure to regularly check smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and fire extinguishers to confirm they’re in proper working order, and that batteries are changed when needed. Finally, you should conduct practice drills periodically to evaluate employees’ response time to a potential fire hazard. 

Keeping these key components in mind when reviewing your fire safety plan can help ensure the safety of everyone in your building.

How to Track Changes

Keeping track of changes to your fire safety plan can be an important part of a successful safety strategy. It’s essential to ensure that everyone in the business knows and understands the plan and any updates or revisions. An electronic tracking system is the most efficient way to monitor changes, with notification emails detailing the change and when made.

Other tracking methods may include printing log sheets for recording details, using a document management system to store copies of plans, or training personnel on how to recognize changes.

Remember that regularly revisiting and updating your fire safety protocols (e.g., conducting drills) will help keep everyone informed of any modifications so that they’re always ready for anything.

Conclusion

So, how often should you review your fire safety plan? Well, reviewing your fire safety plan at least once a year helps to ensure that everyone in the building is prepared for a fire. If you have yet to do it this year, then there’s no time like the present!

Ready to see if your fire extinguishers are in good working order? We’d be happy to help! Click here to get in touch with Fire-Alert today.

As an employer, it is important to think about the safety of your staff and customers. Evaluating fire safety in the workplace is essential, and some simple yet effective tips can help keep risks under control. This blog post will explore 5 workplace fire safety tips that employers can use when assessing fire hazards in the office or other business settings. Read on to find out more!

 

1) Keep Flammable Materials Away from Heat Sources 

Flammable materials, such as oils, liquids, plastics, and aerosol sprays, can come in many forms. It would be best if you never stored these materials near radiators, heaters, unfiltered light sockets, electrical outlets, or any other potential ignition source. 

Doing so would sharply increase the risk of a fire starting and potentially crippling a business. So, protect your workspace by proactively eliminating possible ignition sources near hazardous liquids or source.

 

2) Inspect Electrical Cords

Many common causes of workplace fires involve damaged electrical cords. To ensure a safe work environment, it is important to regularly inspect all electrical cords for any signs of wear and tear or damage. 

Electrical cords that display any signs of deterioration should be immediately replaced with a properly functioning cord to prevent fire risk. Furthermore, all cords should be used per the manufacturer’s instructions to maximize safety and significance.

 

3) Check Detection and Suppression Systems

To help protect your work environment, it is important to properly maintain all fire detection and suppression systems and ensure all fire extinguishers are up to date. Regularly inspect and test these systems and equipment to ensure they’re functioning, and replace those damaged or needing updating. 

It’s also a good idea to have each employee become knowledgeable on the location of all exits, the various types of fire alarms, and instructions for any emergency concerning fires.

 

4) Highlight Exits and Emergency Marks

Any workplace needs to be equipped with the proper resources for a crisis like a fire. Keeping exit paths free from clutter and understanding where emergency exits are can help ensure an orderly evacuation process. It is important for everyone to familiarize themselves with the location of exits and the procedures to evacuate quickly. 

Additionally, ensure that any doorways or hallways leading up to those exits are clear, so there is no obstruction preventing employees from exiting quickly and safely. 

 

5) Know How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguishers are essential fire safety tools for businesses. They should be located throughout the workplace, and checked every 6 months for any damage or evidence of use. Knowing how to operate a fire extinguisher correctly can mean the difference between containing a small incident and experiencing extensive property damage.

Be sure to train all employees on identifying different classes of fires, knowing when it is safe to attempt using a fire extinguisher, understanding the proper technique for using an extinguisher, and knowing when leaving the area is the safest measure.

 

Conclusion

Although a fire at work is unlikely, it is always better to prepare yourself just in case. Following these 5 workplace fire safety tips can help keep yourself and your colleagues safe in a fire.

Is your business in need of fire extinguisher services? We’d be happy to help! Click here to get in touch with Fire-Alert today.

It is essential to keep your family safe and secure in the case of a home emergency. Fire is one of the most common, devastating disasters that can cause extensive property damage—but luckily, you have access to simple technologies that can provide critical warnings about fires: smoke detectors. But how often should you replace smoke detectors?

How Often Should You Replace Smoke Detectors?

Smoke detectors are a crucial component of any home fire safety plan, but many people need to realize they need to be replaced every ten years. 

Because the effectiveness of smoke detectors decreases as they age, partly due to battery sensitivity and dust accumulation, it is important to regularly inspect your smoke detectors and replace them at least every ten years. Otherwise, you may not have adequate protection against fire in an emergency.

What to Do If the Smoke Detector Starts Chirping

It is important to take the chirping sound of a smoke detector seriously. That beeping usually means that it is time to replace the batteries in the detector – failure to do so could put your home in danger, as a non-functioning smoke detector cannot alert those inside if there’s a fire. 

To ensure your safety, check your detectors regularly and replace their batteries when they become overly noisy. It may seem like a small task, but it could make all the difference should an emergency arise.

What to Do If There is Visible Damage to the Smoke Detector

It is important to take immediate action if you notice any visible damage to the smoke detector, such as a cracked faceplate, damaged buttons, or dim lights. In this case, the best course of action would be to replace the smoke detector with a new one.

 Smoke detectors come in wide varieties and can be found in stores both online and in person. It is also beneficial to call an electrician for assistance in installation and wiring work, depending on your specific needs. 

What to Do If the Smoke Detector Goes Off for No Reason

Suppose the smoke detector in your home works intermittently or goes off for no apparent reason. If something is wrong with the device, it could fail to go off in the event of an unexpected fire. It’s a potentially dangerous situation to save a small amount of money by leaving a faulty detector in place. 

Fortunately, replacing a smoke alarm takes very little time and can be done easily. This is especially true if you’re using a battery-operated model that allows you to switch out the old unit quickly.

What to Do If the Smoke Detector Doesn’t Respond While Testing

When testing a smoke detector, it is important to ensure it responds properly by pressing the testing button. 

A smoke alarm should cause an intermittent sound when the device responds correctly. If you press the test button and nothing happens, you should replace the unit immediately.

Conclusion

Replacing your smoke detector is more important than worrying about how often you should do it. But to be safe, check your smoke detectors monthly for proper working conditions. If any are damaged or malfunctioning, replace them right away.

It’s also important to check and replace your fire extinguishers regularly to make sure they’re in proper working condition. If you require fire extinguisher services, we’d be happy to help! Click here to get in touch with Fire-Alert today.

Are you worried about a possible fire hazard in your workplace? Fires can put lives and property at risk, but being prepared and knowing what to do in an emergency is just as important. With the right tools, knowledge, and preparation strategies, you can help keep everyone safe from a fire in the workplace before it has a chance to spread. 

So if you’re looking for reliable information on preparing yourself and co-workers for any potential fire hazards in the workplace, then keep reading!

 

If a Fire Starts, Immediately Evacuate the Building

When there is a fire, it is important to act quickly and evacuate the building as soon as possible. It is the only way to ensure everyone’s safety and minimize potential damage to buildings and property associated with a fire. 

Make sure you call emergency services immediately after evacuation and that everyone follows any instructions the fire brigade gives when they arrive at the scene. These will depend on the individual situation and could involve further evacuation or sheltering in place.

 

Do Not Try to Put Out the Yourself – Leave that to the Professionals

Attempting to put out a large fire yourself may lead to disastrous consequences. Fire is an unpredictable element and requires the expertise of certified professionals well-trained in combating fast-moving combustions. 

Not only could trying to put out a fire harm you severely, but it can also end up being counterproductive as the fire can further spread if not handled properly. It’s best to evacuate first and leave things up to experts who know how to safely and effectively extinguish a fire.

 

If You Are Near a Fire Extinguisher, Use It

When fires happen, it is important to act quickly and correctly. If you see a small fire, the quickest and most effective way of putting it out is by using a fire extinguisher. Fire extinguishers are sprinklers that shoot out different chemical compounds, depending on the fire class. Before using a fire extinguisher though, you should read the instructions carefully and ensure they apply to the type of fire.

An extinguisher can efficiently put out a small but potentially destructive blaze before it becomes a larger risk. Therefore, if you find yourself near an extinguisher in an emergency, be sure to utilize it and help ensure the safety of those involved!

 

Keep All Exits Clear, So People can Escape Quickly and Safely

For everyone’s safety in a building, it is important to clear all exits. Unobstructed exits create the fastest escape routes with the least stumbling and obstacles. Additionally, keeping exits clear allows emergency personnel to access the building safely if they need to assist. 

By taking simple steps such as not placing furniture or items in front of doors, you can help ensure that everyone can evacuate quickly and safely if necessary.

 

Follow the Instructions of Emergency Personnel

It is vital to take direction from certified professionals with specific training to handle such situations. It could be first responders (firefighters, police officers, and paramedics) or other public safety personnel. 

Their expertise in navigating difficult or dangerous circumstances can make all the difference between life and death. So it is important to cooperate with and follow their commands and remain respectful of their service.  

 

Conclusion

Fire safety in the workplace is essential to protect yourself and your co-workers. Therefore, knowing what to do when there is a fire in the workplace is important. By having proper emergency plans and resources in place, such as fire extinguishers or alarms, you can help ensure that the situation is contained and everyone is safe.

Need to make sure your fire extinguishers are ready to go in an emergency? We can help with that! Click here to get in touch with Fire-Alert today.

When it comes to fire safety, one of the most important investments any business can make is purchasing a fire extinguisher. But with so many different types and sizes available, you may be wondering: what type of fire extinguisher do I need for my business?

Whether you’re just starting or need to replace an existing unit, this guide will help you understand what type of fire extinguisher your business needs to keep everyone safe.

Different Types of Fire Extinguishers and Their Uses

You can’t just use any extinguisher – you need to find the right one for the particular types of fire that may affect your business. This makes choosing the correct extinguisher a critical decision when putting together a fire safety plan. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) breaks down each type with an A, B, and C rating system.

  • You can use halon extinguishers on all Class A to C fires but not if humans are present due to their toxicity.
  • Carbon dioxide extinguishers are best for computer server rooms where they can easily handle Class B and electrical fires without causing additional harm.
  • The wet chemical extinguisher is most often used in eateries since it affects flammable liquids, cooking fat, and oil fires without damaging cooking equipment.
  • Dry powder is the most efficient at tackling electrical equipment or metal fires.
  • Foam spray extinguishers work best against flammable liquids such as gasoline or oil.
  • Water-based fire extinguishers contain pressure water and fight combustible material such as paper or wood fires.

Understanding these details before putting together your fire safety plan is paramount to ensure that you make an informed decision when selecting the best type of fire extinguisher for your needs.

How to Determine What Size of Fire Extinguisher You Need

When selecting the appropriate size fire extinguisher for your business, you should consider a few factors.

  • Assess the overall size of the area you need to cover with the extinguisher. It is recommended to purchase an extinguisher based on other square footage of the space, typically one for every 150-200 square feet or 30 linear feet of wall space. For example, a small office space will require a much smaller extinguisher than a large manufacturing facility or warehouse. It would help if you also considered the types of fires that could occur in your building.
  • Determining the appropriate size using the rating system used by fire safety experts. Fire extinguishers are rated according to their relative effectiveness against various classes of fires — from 1A:10B: C up to 320A:80B: C — which refers to how many square feet of burning material each unit can put out. Make sure you select an extinguisher with a rating that matches or exceeds your expected needs. 
  • Consider additional features that may make using the extinguisher easier in an emergency. Features like anti-theft alarms and wall-mounting capabilities can help protect your investment while making it more accessible when you need it most.

Conclusion

Different businesses have different fire risks and, as such, need different types of fire extinguishers. Deciding what type of fire extinguisher to get for your business may seem daunting, but we hope this guide has given you a better understanding of the different types of fires and which extinguishers you’ll need to put them out. Good luck!

Need fire extinguisher services for your business? We can help with that! Click here to get in touch with Fire-Alert today.