What Do The Symbols On A Fire Extinguisher Indicate?

What is a fire extinguisher?

A fire extinguisher is a device used to put out fires. It is usually a small can with a pressurized stream of water, foam, or CO2. When activated, the extinguisher releases a cloud of the extinguishing agent that quickly suffocates the fire. 

A fire extinguisher is usually mounted on a wall or ceiling where it can be easily accessed in the event of a fire outbreak.

Classes of fire

Fire is one of the most important elements in human life. Every day, we use fire to cook our food or to keep warm. We use fire to light candles or cigarettes. Fire is also important in the history of humanity. 

For example, the Greek philosopher Plato believed that fire was the first element that was created by God. It’s therefore not surprising that fire has been classified. The classes of fire are explained below.

1. Class A fire

Class A fires are those involving materials that are considered to be ordinary combustible materials. These types of fires often involve materials like cloth, wood, paper, rubber, and many plastics. 

This type of fire is one of the most dangerous because it can quickly spread and consume a large amount of material.

2. Class B fire

A Class B fire is a fire in flammable liquids or flammable gases, petroleum greases, tars, oils, oil-based paints, and solvents. 

These fires are considered to be of moderate to high risk because of their potential for explosion and spread. Class B fires require more aggressive firefighting tactics due to the volatility of these materials.

3. Class C fire

A Class C fire is an energized electrical fire. Energized in this sense means that it is fed by a power source. Class C fires may begin with a short circuit, faulty wiring, power cord damage, or other electrical problems. 

They can also be caused by static electricity buildup on objects like clothes and hair. If you see or smell smoke, there is a good chance that a Class C fire has started. Class C fires can be dangerous and require prompt attention.

4. Class D fire

Class D fires are a common type of fire. They occur when combustible materials, such as metals, are involved. This type of fire is also known as a thermal fire. The most common sources of these fires are cooking pots and pans, welding rods, and candles. 

These fires typically occur in places where combustible materials are present, such as warehouses or factories. Class D fires can be dangerous and difficult to fight, as they often spread quickly and produce high levels of heat and smoke.

5. Class K fire

Class K fires are fires that involve vegetable oils, animal oils, or fats in cooking appliances. These fires can cause serious burns and should always be avoided. 

Class K fires can be difficult to detect and put out and can cause significant damage to property and equipment. 

There are several ways to prevent class K fires from happening, including using safe cooking practices, using clean cooking surfaces, and using approved cooking appliances. Remember to always keep a fire extinguisher on hand in case of a Class K fire.

Symbols On Fire Extinguishers and Their Meanings

Fire extinguishers come in many shapes and sizes, but all of them have some symbols on them. These symbols tell the user when the fire extinguisher can be used as they represent each class of fire. 

Each fire class generally has a geometric symbol and a pictograph. Adhering to the symbol is important as it will help you handle the situation on hand expertly. It is, therefore, crucial to familiarize yourself with these symbols.

1. Class A fire

It is represented by an A inscribed in a green triangle, and its pictograph shows ordinary trash and wood on fire.

2. Class B fire

It is represented by a B inscribed in a red square, and its pictograph shows a fuel can on fire.

3. Class C fire

It is represented by a C inscribed in a blue circle, and its pictograph is an electrical cord and outlet that have caught on fire.

4. Class D fire

It is represented by a D inscribed in a yellow star or decagon. Its pictograph, though rarely used, shows a metal beam and flames.

5. Class K fire

It is represented by a K inscribed in a black hexagon and its pictograph is a frying pan in flames.

6. Combinations

Some fire extinguishers are multi-purpose and can put out several types of flames. Such extinguishers are commonly used at home and have more than one symbol and pictograph on them. Some common combinations include ‘ABC’ and ‘BC’.

Types of Fire Extinguishers

There are five different types of fire extinguishers, and each one is designed for a specific purpose. Some fire extinguishers use pressurized water to put out the fire, while others use foam or CO2. 

The type of extinguisher you use depends on the kind of fire you’re fighting. The types of fire extinguishers are discussed below.

1. Water fire extinguisher 

Water fire extinguishers are designed to put out fires that involve solid combustible materials like wood, paper, textiles, etc. These extinguishers have a red label and a class A rating. They use pressurized water to put out fires.

2. Foam fire extinguisher 

Foam fire extinguishers are suitable for fighting burning solids like wood as well as liquid fires like burning petrol. The foam can creep over the burning liquid or soak into the material, smothering the fire.

Foam is an effective agent against fires because it creates a dense blanket of water droplets that quickly put out the flames. It is important to note that foam fire extinguishers are not effective against electrical fires.

3. CO2 fire extinguisher 

As the world becomes increasingly populated and more densely populated, there is an increased concern over the increasing number of fires. One way to combat this problem is to use CO2 fire extinguishers. 

These extinguishers use carbon dioxide to put out a fire. They are very effective, and they are not harmful to people or the environment. They easily handle class B and C fires.

4. Powder fire extinguisher 

Powder extinguishers are versatile fire extinguishers as they can be used on Class A, B, and C fires. Powder extinguishers are a good choice for multi-purpose use because they have a wider range of effectiveness than other types of extinguishers. 

They have a reduced risk of back-drafting and can be used in enclosed spaces. They are also effective against methane gas fires.

Powder extinguishers can handle electrical fires though there’s the risk of ignition as they don’t cool the appliance and they do not work well against oil or gas fires. They are however very handy to have in emergencies.

5. Wet chemical fire extinguisher 

Wet chemical fire extinguishers are specifically designed for use on fires involving combustible cooking media such as burning oil and fat. 

These extinguishers have a yellow label, which makes them easy to identify, and they contain a mixture of water, sodium bicarbonate, and potassium bicarbonate.

How To Use A Fire Extinguisher

Safely using a fire extinguisher can be essential in preventing a house fire. Here are five tips for using a fire extinguisher:

• Read the safety instructions carefully before using the extinguisher.
• Point the nozzle at the base of the fire.
• Pull the pin and hold the trigger until the bottle is discharged.
• If you are using a large extinguisher, shake it before each discharge to ensure that all of the agent is released.
• Sweep the extinguisher back and forth over the surface of the fire.
• Stay away from the fire while the extinguisher is in use. 

The Importance of Having A Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguishers can be a life-saving tool in the event of a fire. They are also a legal requirement in many places. Here are five reasons why having one is important: 

• A fire extinguisher can put out small fires quickly and easily.
• If there is a large fire, a fire extinguisher can significantly reduce the risk of it becoming uncontrollable.
• Having a fire extinguisher on hand and knowing how to use it ensures the protection of lives and property. Most fires can be put off with a fire extinguisher.

The symbols on a fire extinguisher indicate what type of fire it can be used on. It is important to know which type of extinguisher to use for the type of fire that is occurring. 

For instance, using a water extinguisher on an electrical fire will only make the situation worse. This implies keeping an eye on your surroundings to be able to know which type of fire is burning.

Fire extinguishers should also be placed where they are easily accessible in case of emergencies. Knowing how to use a fire extinguisher is important for safety, and it is recommended that everyone knows how to use one. 

If you see a fire, always call the fire department first and then try to use a fire extinguisher if it is safe to do so.