Frequently Asked Questions
What are the different fire extinguisher colours and what do they mean?
In the UK, fire extinguisher colours help identify their contents and appropriate use. A red label indicates a water extinguisher, suitable for solid combustibles like paper and wood. A cream label marks a foam extinguisher, used on flammable liquids and solids. A blue label represents a dry powder extinguisher, which is versatile across multiple fire classes. A black label is used for COâ‚‚ extinguishers, ideal for electrical fires. Finally, a yellow label is for wet chemical extinguishers, designed specifically for cooking oil fires (Class F). These fire extinguisher colours make it easier to act quickly and correctly during a fire emergency.
What extinguisher should be used for electrical fires?
For an electrical fire, the safest extinguishers to use are CO₂ extinguishers (black label) and dry powder extinguishers (blue label). These types are non-conductive and won’t cause electrocution, unlike water or foam. CO₂ is often preferred in offices and server rooms because it leaves no residue, while dry powder is more suitable in industrial or outdoor areas where electrical and flammable risks coexist. If you’re unsure, always look for extinguishers that explicitly state they are safe on Class E or electrical fires.
What is a water extinguisher used for?
A water extinguisher is primarily used for Class A fires, which involve solid materials like paper, wood, and textiles. They work by cooling the flames and lowering the temperature below the ignition point. However, they should never be used on flammable liquids or electrical fires, as this can spread the fire or create electrocution hazards. You’ll usually find water extinguishers in schools, office buildings, and public spaces with low electrical risk. Understanding the purpose of a water extinguisher helps prevent its misuse in hazardous situations.
What are the 4 main types of fire extinguishers?
The four main fire extinguisher types commonly used in workplaces are water (red), foam (cream), dry powder (blue), and COâ‚‚ (black). Each is suited for different fire classes:
- Water: For solid materials (Class A)
- Foam: For solids and flammable liquids (Class A & B)
- Dry Powder: For solids, flammable liquids, gases, and electrical equipment (A, B, C & electrical)
- COâ‚‚: Primarily for electrical fires and flammable liquids (electrical & B)
Wet chemical extinguishers (yellow label) are also widely used in kitchens, particularly in the hospitality sector, to handle Class F fires involving cooking oils.
Which extinguisher should be used on flammable liquids?
Fires involving flammable liquids like petrol or solvents are classified as Class B fires. The best extinguishers for these are foam extinguishers (cream label) and dry powder extinguishers (blue label). COâ‚‚ extinguishers are also effective, particularly in indoor spaces where clean use is important. Never use water extinguishers on flammable liquids; it will likely spread the fire. Knowing the right fire extinguisher for flammable liquids can prevent disasters in fuel-handling or chemical workspaces.
What are the different classes of fire in the UK?
In the UK, fires are categorised into six main classes of fire:
- Class A – solids like wood and paper
- Class B – flammable liquids such as oils, fuels, or alcohols
- Class C – flammable gases like butane or propane
- Class D – combustible metals such as magnesium or lithium
- Class F – cooking oils and fats
- Electrical fires – involving powered appliances (not a formal class but treated uniquely)
Each fire class demands a specific extinguisher, making it crucial to understand this system for safe fire management.
What type of extinguisher should be used on different materials?
Different materials ignite differently, and not all extinguishers can be used safely across them. Solid materials, such as paper and wood, require water or foam extinguishers. Flammable liquids are best handled with foam, COâ‚‚, or dry powder. For electrical equipment, COâ‚‚ or dry powder is the safest option. Cooking oil fires need wet chemical extinguishers, and metal fires require specialist dry powder types (not to be confused with standard ABC powder). Understanding the kind of extinguisher suitable for a particular material reduces the risk of igniting the fire.
What is the cream fire extinguisher used for?
The cream fire extinguisher is a foam extinguisher. It’s used on Class A and B fires, which involve solids (such as paper and textiles) and flammable liquids (like petrol or paint). It works by creating a cooling foam barrier that suffocates the fire and prevents re-ignition. However, cream extinguishers should never be used on electrical fires, as foam conducts electricity. These are common in industrial and commercial environments where both solid and liquid fire risks are present.