What Type of Fire Extinguisher Do I Need?

It's vital that every workplace carries several fire extinguishers on site in case of emergencies. Whether you are in an office or a restaurant, the risk of fire is always there. To ensure staff and visitors are protected at all times, you'll want to ensure you have plenty of fire extinguishers on site. 

However, there are several different types of fire extinguishers available, and it can be confusing to know which ones you need. We've put together a quick guide to break down the main ones. 

Water Fire Extinguishers 

These have a red label and should only be used against class A fires burning material - such as wood, paper, and textiles. They work by cooling the burning material below its ignition temperature, stopping the fire from spreading. 

Foam Fire Extinguishers 

These tend to have a nude or pale yellow label and should only be used against burning materials and flammable liquids. like petrol or diesel. They form a cooling, foam blanket which cuts off the oxygen and prevents re-ignition. 

Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers

These are identified by a blue label and are used against burning materials, flammable liquids, flammable gases, flammable metals, and electrical equipment. These extinguishers release a fine chemical powder that coats the fire and prevents it from spreading. 

Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguishers (CO2 extinguisher) 

These have a black label and should be used against flammable liquids and electrical fires. They displace oxygen and cool the flames, making them ideal for offices, server rooms, and any areas with sensitive equipment. 

Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher

These usually have a bright yellow label and are used against burning materials and deep fat fryer fires. They are designed specifically to tackle fires caused by cooking oils and fats, making them essential for commercial kitchens and any food preparation areas. 

These are some of the most common fire extinguishers across industries. We have plenty in stock on our website which are all clearly labelled for their use. If you need any extra help, you can get in touch with our friendly team, who are just a call or email away.