Fire extinguishers are vital to any fire safety strategy, offering a crucial first line of defence against small fires. Whether in a commercial property or a home, having the appropriate equipment readily available can prevent a minor incident from escalating into a devastating event. However, not all extinguishers are the same. Understanding the different types of fire extinguishers and their uses is essential to ensure safety, protect assets, and comply with regulations.
Choosing the correct type of fire extinguisher for your premises is not just about ticking a compliance box—it’s about ensuring the safety of everyone on site. Misusing an extinguisher or having the wrong type available can be ineffective or dangerous.
That’s where Firecom Safety Systems comes in. As experts in fire extinguisher installation and maintenance, we specialise in advising businesses on the best equipment for their needs. From initial free site surveys to ongoing servicing, Firecom Safety Systems ensures you’re equipped and prepared for any fire risk.
Fire extinguishers are essential tools, but using the wrong one in an emergency can increase the risks rather than mitigate them. For example, attempting to extinguish an electrical fire with a water extinguisher can escalate the danger, potentially causing severe damage or injury. Misuse jeopardises safety and can invalidate insurance claims, highlighting the importance of having the right fire extinguisher types on hand.
Understanding the different types of fire extinguishers and their uses enables businesses to make informed decisions about fire safety. Properly matched extinguishers offer targeted solutions for various fire risks, ensuring swift and effective response when it matters most. With Firecom Safety Systems’ free site survey, businesses can receive expert advice on the correct extinguishers for their premises and placement guidance to ensure compliance with British Standards. This tailored service helps eliminate guesswork and supports safer environments for everyone.
Water Fire Extinguishers
Water fire extinguishers are ideal for tackling Class A fires involving combustible materials such as wood, paper, and textiles. Their straightforward design makes them easy to use and highly effective in office and residential settings. However, they should never be used on electrical or flammable liquid fires, as water can exacerbate these risks.
Foam Fire Extinguishers
Foam extinguishers are versatile, offering protection against Class A and Class B fires, which include flammable liquids like petrol and paint. They smother flames and create a cooling layer over the fire's surface. Commonly found in offices, warehouses, and garages, foam extinguishers are a reliable choice for mixed environments.
Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers
Dry powder extinguishers are highly versatile and suitable for Class A, B, and C fires and electrical equipment. Their ability to combat flammable gases and liquids makes them particularly useful in industrial settings. However, they can leave a powdery residue that may damage sensitive equipment, making them less suited to enclosed spaces.
CO2 Fire Extinguishers
CO2 extinguishers are designed for electrical and Class B fires involving flammable liquids. Their clean discharge leaves no residue, making them ideal for use around electronics, such as in server rooms or offices. The absence of cleanup and their targeted effectiveness are key advantages of CO2 extinguishers.
Some fire risks require specialised extinguishers:
Wet Chemical Extinguishers - Designed for Class F fires, these are essential in commercial kitchens to tackle fires involving cooking oils and fats.
Clean Agent Extinguishers - Ideal for protecting sensitive equipment, such as in data centres or laboratories, these extinguishers effectively suppress fires without leaving harmful residues
Firecom Safety Systems offers bespoke fire safety solutions for unique risks, including customised equipment tailored to specific environments. Our expert team ensures that every fire extinguisher matches the potential on-site hazards.
Every fire is different, and so is the equipment required to extinguish it safely. Selecting the appropriate fire extinguisher for specific risks is critical to ensure effective response and minimise damage. Understanding the most common fire risks and the corresponding extinguisher types can help protect your premises and occupants better.
Electrical fires - Use CO2 or Dry Powder extinguishers.
Flammable liquids - Opt for Foam or Dry Powder extinguishers.
Kitchen fires - Choose Wet Chemical extinguishers for fires involving cooking oils and fats.
Proper placement of fire extinguishers is just as important as selecting the right type. The British Standard BS5306 provides clear guidelines on how extinguishers should be positioned to maximise accessibility and safety. Key considerations include ensuring extinguishers are visible, easily reachable, and located in areas where fire risks are most prevalent.
Fire extinguishers should always be installed near fire exits and along escape routes, making them readily available during an emergency. Additional units may be required next to high-risk equipment, such as photocopiers, servers, or industrial machinery. Portable fire extinguishers provide essential coverage for outdoor risks, such as fuel storage areas or inside vehicles.
Correctly mounting extinguishers is also crucial to compliance and usability. Wall mounting at specified heights or placing extinguishers on fire stands ensures they remain stable, visible, and accessible. Firecom Safety Systems specialises in installing fire extinguishers per these guidelines, ensuring compliance with BS5306.
Our comprehensive installation service includes a free site survey to assess your premises. The survey provides tailored advice on the optimal type, quantity, and location of extinguishers. Our professional approach meets legal requirements and offers peace of mind that your fire safety measures are robust and reliable.
Using a fire extinguisher correctly can mean the difference between containing a small fire and allowing it to escalate. The PASS method—Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep—is a straightforward technique for operating extinguishers:
It is vital to remember that fire extinguishers are designed for small, manageable fires. If a fire grows rapidly or the environment becomes unsafe, evacuate immediately and contact emergency services. Tackling a fire without proper training or attempting to extinguish one beyond your ability could increase risks to life and property.
Staff training is crucial in ensuring extinguishers are used safely and effectively. Appointing and educating fire marshals about fire risks, extinguisher types, and evacuation procedures enhances fire preparedness. Firecom Safety Systems provides comprehensive guidance during installation, helping your team understand extinguisher operation and best practices for safe use.
To remain effective and legally compliant, fire extinguishers must be maintained regularly per BS5306 guidelines. Annual servicing by a qualified technician is a legal requirement to ensure extinguishers are in good working order. These checks include verifying the extinguisher’s pressure levels, tamper seals, and physical condition.
In addition to professional servicing, the responsible person on-site or the fire marshal should conduct monthly inspections. These checks involve looking for visible damage, ensuring the extinguishers are accessible, and confirming the pressure gauge indicates the correct charge.
Different extinguishers require extended servicing schedules:
Water, foam, and dry powder extinguishers: Every five years.
CO2 extinguishers: Every ten years.
Firecom Safety Systems simplifies maintenance with transparent servicing records detailing each extinguisher’s type, location, and anticipated lifespan. We also offer a convenient refilling service for all extinguisher types, including CO2 models and wheeled systems, ensuring your equipment is always ready. With our expertise, you can rest assured that your fire safety measures meet all legal and practical requirements.
Firecom Safety Systems has earned its reputation by providing dependable fire extinguisher installation and maintenance services. Our experienced team ensures your fire safety measures are effective, practical, and compliant with UK regulations. Whether you’re safeguarding a business or a home, we make fire safety straightforward and reliable.
We don’t believe in a one-size-fits-all approach. Every property is different, so we specialise in bespoke fire safety solutions. From portable extinguishers for vehicles to advanced systems for high-risk environments, we provide equipment that fits your exact requirements—always at a competitive price.
Compliance isn’t just about ticking boxes but protecting lives and assets. Our free site survey helps you identify the right extinguishers for your premises and ensures they’re installed in the most effective locations. If you already have scaled site plans, you can submit them to us directly, and we’ll provide a clear and comprehensive quote.
If you’re ready to improve your fire safety measures, Firecom Safety Systems is here to help. Please speak to one of our experts, arrange a free site survey, or get advice tailored to your needs. Call us on 0115 822 2000 or email contactus@firecomsystems.co.uk today.
Please feel free to contact our team for a Free Site Survey or No Obligation Quotation on 0115 822 2000 or at contactus@firecomsystems.co.uk
