Home Fire Extinguishers

Fire prevention is important. However, if a fire does occur, having the right fire extinguisher is essential. There are several classes of fire extinguishers. 

Class (A) Fire Extinguisher

Pressurized water – Used for basic paper, wood and cloth fires. 

Class (B, C) Fire Extinguisher

Carbon Dioxide, Sodium Bicarbonate or Halon – Works by removing oxygen to suffocate the fire. These extinguishers are heavy and do not cool the burning material. However, the cleanup is much easier.

Class (A,B,C) Fire Extinguisher

Multipurpose Dry Chemical or Halon- This is the most common type of fire extinguisher. They are lightweight and easy to use.

Class (D) Fire Extinguisher

Dry Chemical – Used for metal fires. 

Class (K) Fire Extinguisher

Wet Chemical – Creates a foam which suffocates the fire, cools the burning elements and prevents grease and oil from reigniting.

You should have at least 1 Class (A, B, C) fire extinguisher on each floor. In addition, there should be a Class (K) or (BC) extinguisher in the kitchen area. How many extinguishers depends on the size of the home. Place fire extinguishers in easily accessible areas.