Essential Equipment Guide
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
What are fire extinguishers?
A fire extinguisher is an active fire protection device used to extinguish or control small fires, often in emergency situations. It is your first line of defense, designed to tackle a fire before it spreads and poses a major threat to life and property.
What are they used for?
They are used to suppress fires involving various materials like wood, paper, flammable liquids, or electrical equipment. When used correctly and promptly, they can prevent significant damage and provide a safe exit path for occupants during an emergency.
Safety & Compliance Importance
Having the correct, maintained fire extinguishers is not just a safety choice, it is a legal requirement for businesses under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. Compliance ensures your insurance remains valid and, most importantly, protects the lives of your employees and visitors by providing the necessary tools to fight fire effectively.
Main Types of Fire Extinguishers
Water (Red)
Suitable for Class A fires involving organic materials such as wood, cloth, paper, and plastics.
Foam (Cream)
Effective for Class A materials and Class B fires involving flammable liquids like petrol and oil.
CO2 (Black)
The go-to for electrical fires and Class B liquid fires. Leaves no residue after use.
Powder (Blue)
Versatile 'ABC' extinguishers for many fire types, though mainly used in industrial settings.