There are many different kinds of fires that have the potential to destroy your company, so it is only fitting that there are multiple kinds of fire extinguishers to combat the flames. As a business owner, it is important that you know which kind of extinguisher(s) that you should have in your office in the event of a fire.
The following are a few examples of different types of fire extinguishers and the fires that they put out:
- Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguishers – Carbon dioxide extinguishers were designed to fight electrical fires caused by electrical equipment. C02 extinguishers work by smothering the fire and robbing it of its fuel source, oxygen. It is best if these extinguishers are not used in a small, confined space because of this.
- ABC Fire Extinguishers – While some look for only class A, B, or C extinguishers, there is an extinguisher that has the ability to do the job of all three classes. An ABC extinguisher is filled with mono ammonium phosphate, a dry chemical agent, and is able to fight all three of these classes of fires. This chemical agent is known to be corrosive and must be removed from the surfaces once the fire is out to prevent further damage. This type of extinguisher is most commonly found in general office buildings and schools.
- Water and Water Mist Fire Extinguishers – Frequently used in libraries, water extinguishers are used to put out class B fires and water mist extinguishers are for both class A and C. They do not use any kind of chemicals.
- Class K Fire Extinguishers – Class K fire extinguishers are best suited for commercial kitchens, as they can combat fires that are fueled by grease or oils. They are filled with a blend of potassium citrate and potassium acetate, and spray these chemicals in a mist so that oils are not splashed. This unique mist also helps create a barrier between oxygen and the source of heat so that the fire cannot reignite.
- Purple K Fire Extinguishers – Although the name suggests that this type of extinguisher uses potassium or fights class K fires, it actually does neither. The Purple K extinguisher uses a dry chemical component to combat class B and C fires. These extinguishers are most effective against fires started with flammable liquids, such as tar, solvents, alcohol, flammable gases, petroleum greases, and so on.
- Halotron Fire Extinguishers – Able to fight class A, B, and C fires, Halotron fire extinguishers feature a powered that is dispersed in a liquid as it evaporates. This means that it does not cling, cause thermal shock of static, and isn’t a conductor. These extinguishers are ideal for offices, electronic storage areas, and clean rooms.
For more information on the different types of fire extinguishers and for assistance in choosing the right one for your business, contact the fire safety experts at A Total Solution, Inc. today!
