{"id":36152,"date":"2025-07-23T11:26:22","date_gmt":"2025-07-23T11:26:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/?p=36152"},"modified":"2026-01-28T11:30:43","modified_gmt":"2026-01-28T11:30:43","slug":"fire-extinguisher-types","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/fire-extinguisher-types","title":{"rendered":"Fire Extinguisher Types and Their Uses (With Colour Codes Explained)"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"36152\" class=\"elementor elementor-36152\" data-elementor-post-type=\"post\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<section class=\"elementor-section elementor-top-section elementor-element elementor-element-a0d0574 elementor-section-boxed elementor-section-height-default elementor-section-height-default\" data-id=\"a0d0574\" data-element_type=\"section\" data-e-type=\"section\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-container elementor-column-gap-default\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-column elementor-col-100 elementor-top-column elementor-element elementor-element-682ab37\" data-id=\"682ab37\" data-element_type=\"column\" data-e-type=\"column\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-wrap elementor-element-populated\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-223c37b elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"223c37b\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-36763 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/four-fire-extinguishers.webp\" alt=\"Four red fire extinguishers mounted on a white wall, each with different nozzle types and usage labels, indicating variations such as CO\u2082 and dry powder extinguishers.\" width=\"1000\" height=\"561\" srcset=\"https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/four-fire-extinguishers.webp 1000w, https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/four-fire-extinguishers-300x168.webp 300w, https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/four-fire-extinguishers-768x431.webp 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px\" \/><\/p><p>Fires are unpredictable, but your response to them doesn\u2019t have to be. Whether you&#8217;re working in construction, retail, hospitality, or an office, understanding fire extinguishers is essential. It\u2019s not just about reacting in emergencies; it\u2019s about being prepared, responsible, and compliant with UK workplace safety standards.<\/p><p>This guide explains the various types of fire extinguishers, their relationship to fire classes, and how to use them safely, whether you\u2019re new to the topic or a workplace supervisor managing health and safety.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7d16a29 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7d16a29\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2><strong>What Are Fire Classes and Why Do They Matter?<\/strong><\/h2><p>In the UK, fires are grouped into classes based on the type of material that\u2019s burning. This classification is important because each fire type requires a different extinguishing method. Using the wrong one can be dangerous or even fatal.<\/p><ul><li aria-level=\"1\">Class A: Solid combustibles like wood, paper, fabric<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\">Class B: Flammable liquids such as petrol, oils, and solvents<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\">Class C: Flammable gases like propane or butane<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\">Class D: Flammable metals (e.g. magnesium, aluminium)<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\">Class F: Cooking oils and fats (common in kitchens)<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\">Electrical Fires: Not a separate class, but a common and serious risk involving powered equipment<\/li><\/ul><p>Once you understand what\u2019s burning, you can safely match the fire to the correct type of extinguisher.<\/p><p>Want a deeper understanding of the dangers in the workplace? See our post on<span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><a style=\"color: #3366ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/health-and-safety-risks-on-construction-sites\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> common health and safety risks on construction sites<\/a>.<\/span><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-067be42 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"067be42\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2><strong>Types of Fire Extinguishers (and What They\u2019re Used For)<\/strong><\/h2><p>Fire extinguishers in the UK are colour-coded and designed to fight specific fire classes. Here&#8217;s a detailed look at the most common types you\u2019ll see in the workplace:<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2633264 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"2633264\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3>Water Extinguisher (Red Label)<\/h3><p>Water extinguishers are used for Class A fires, which involve materials such as wood, paper, or cloth. They work by cooling the burning material and reducing heat. However, they must never be used on electrical fires or flammable liquids, as this could spread the fire or result in electrocution.<\/p><p>These are commonly found in schools, offices, and public buildings where solid materials are the main fire risk.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-f9169b9 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"f9169b9\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3>Foam Extinguisher (Cream Label)<\/h3><p>Foam extinguishers are suitable for Class A and B fires, meaning they can handle solids and flammable liquids. They work by forming a film over the liquid\u2019s surface, cutting off oxygen. Foam extinguishers are versatile but still unsafe on live electrical equipment.<\/p><p>You\u2019ll often see these in garages, workshops, and warehouses.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-2ac39d8 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"2ac39d8\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3>Dry Powder Extinguisher (Blue Label)<\/h3><p>Also known as ABC extinguishers, dry powder models are suitable for Class A, B, and C fires and can also be used on electrical fires. They work by smothering the fire and interrupting the chemical reaction. However, they create a lot of residue and can make it hard to see or breathe indoors.<\/p><p>Dry powder extinguishers are useful for outdoor settings, petrol stations, and sites with mixed fire risks.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-8dcc44a elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"8dcc44a\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3>CO\u2082 Extinguisher (Black Label)<\/h3><p>CO\u2082 extinguishers are ideal for electrical fires and flammable liquids. They work by displacing oxygen, effectively suffocating the fire. Since CO\u2082 leaves no residue, it\u2019s ideal for offices, IT rooms, and electrical cabinets.<\/p><p>However, they\u2019re ineffective on Class A fires and not suitable for outdoor use where wind can disperse the gas.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7c79d7d elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"7c79d7d\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h3>Wet Chemical Extinguisher (Yellow Label)<\/h3><p>Designed explicitly for Class F fires, wet chemical extinguishers are essential in kitchens. They cool burning oil and chemically react to form a soapy layer that seals the surface and prevents re-ignition. While highly effective in kitchens, they should never be used on electrical fires.<\/p><p>This extinguisher is a must-have in catering environments, canteens, and food production units.<\/p><p>Curious about how these types apply in real settings? Read our guide to<span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><a style=\"color: #3366ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/fire-safety-at-your-workplace\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> fire safety at your workplace<\/a>.<\/span><\/p><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-12\"><div class=\"p-4 my-4\" style=\"background-color: #ededed;\"><h4><strong>\ud83e\uddefBe the Person Who Knows What to Do<\/strong><\/h4><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fire Marshals are essential in every workplace. Get trained to lead evacuations, use extinguishers safely, and prevent fire risks.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Explore the <\/span><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><a style=\"color: #3366ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/hurak.com\/course\/fire-marshal-fire-warden-online\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fire Marshal Online<\/span><\/a><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Course<\/span><\/p><\/div><p><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter wp-image-36760 size-full\" src=\"https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Infographic-extinguishers-for-different-fire-classes.webp\" alt=\"Infographic titled \u2018Which Extinguisher for Which Fire?\u2019 showing a decision flowchart based on what's burning: solids (Class A \u2013 water extinguisher), liquids (Class B \u2013 foam), gases (Class C \u2013 dry powder), metals (Class D \u2013 dry powder), and cooking oils (Class F \u2013 wet chemical). Includes do-not-use warnings for each extinguisher type.\" width=\"2048\" height=\"2001\" srcset=\"https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Infographic-extinguishers-for-different-fire-classes.webp 2048w, https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Infographic-extinguishers-for-different-fire-classes-300x293.webp 300w, https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Infographic-extinguishers-for-different-fire-classes-1024x1001.webp 1024w, https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Infographic-extinguishers-for-different-fire-classes-768x750.webp 768w, https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Infographic-extinguishers-for-different-fire-classes-1536x1501.webp 1536w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px\" \/><\/p><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ffb5858 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ffb5858\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2><strong>Why Using the Correct Extinguisher Is Critical<\/strong><\/h2><p>Using the wrong extinguisher can have serious consequences. For instance, spraying water on burning oil can cause the flames to spread violently. Similarly, using foam or water on an electrical fire could lead to electrocution.<\/p><p>Employers and designated fire wardens must ensure that the correct extinguishers are not only present but also clearly labelled, accessible, and maintained. As part of their training, they must understand how to assess which extinguisher is appropriate based on the fire class.<\/p><p>If you&#8217;re assigned fire safety responsibilities at work, it\u2019s worth knowing that Fire Marshal training prepares you to take charge in emergencies, from extinguisher use to evacuation leadership.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-893e780 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"893e780\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2>Legal Responsibilities Under UK Law<\/h2><p>According to the <span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005<\/span><\/span><span style=\"color: #000000;\">, all workplaces in the UK are required to:<\/span><\/p><ul><li aria-level=\"1\">Conduct regular fire risk assessments<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\">Install appropriate fire extinguishers based on identified risks<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\">Ensure that extinguishers are regularly serviced<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\">Train staff in fire awareness and extinguisher use<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\">Assign responsible persons for managing fire safety<\/li><\/ul><p>These duties apply to all employers, building owners, and anyone in control of premises. Non-compliance can lead to enforcement notices, fines, or prosecution, especially if someone is harmed due to a lack of preparation.<\/p><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-12\"><div class=\"p-4 my-4\" style=\"background-color: #ededed;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For supervisors, particularly in construction and high-risk settings, understanding these duties in depth is covered in formal training, such as the<\/span><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><a style=\"color: #3366ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/hurak.com\/course\/citb-site-supervisor-safety-training-sssts-online\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> SSSTS course<\/span><\/a><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\">,<\/span> which focuses on real-world responsibilities and safe working practices.<\/span><\/div><div><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re unsure how roles and responsibilities are structured within an organisation, our article on the<\/span><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><a style=\"color: #3366ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/health-and-safety-officer-key-roles-and-responsibilities\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> <span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">key responsibilities of a health and safety officer<\/span><\/a><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> offers practical insights.<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-b084e67 elementor-widget elementor-widget-image\" data-id=\"b084e67\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"image.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/hurak.com\/course\/level-2-health-and-safety-in-the-workplace\" target=\"_blank\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"323\" src=\"https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Level-2-health-and-safety-course-banner-1-1024x413.webp\" class=\"attachment-large size-large wp-image-36762\" alt=\"Hurak banner promoting the Level 2 Health and Safety course with Hurak\" srcset=\"https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Level-2-health-and-safety-course-banner-1-1024x413.webp 1024w, https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Level-2-health-and-safety-course-banner-1-300x121.webp 300w, https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Level-2-health-and-safety-course-banner-1-768x310.webp 768w, https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Level-2-health-and-safety-course-banner-1-1536x620.webp 1536w, https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/07\/Level-2-health-and-safety-course-banner-1.webp 2048w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-d2f1098 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"d2f1098\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2><strong>Why Training Makes the Difference<\/strong><\/h2><p>Even when the right extinguishers are in place, they\u2019re only effective if people know how to use them. Training helps employees understand the types of fires they may face and equips them with the confidence to act safely.<\/p><p>If you\u2019re just starting your health and safety journey or looking to refresh your knowledge, the<span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><a style=\"color: #3366ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/hurak.com\/course\/level-2-health-and-safety-in-the-workplace\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> Level 2 Health and Safety in the Workplace course<\/a><\/span> is a great foundation. It teaches you how to identify risks, handle equipment such as extinguishers, and understand the laws that govern workplace safety.<\/p><p>For those in catering, retail, or hospitality roles where fire hazards are specific to the environment, such tailored training helps build long-term confidence and prevent incidents before they happen.<\/p><p>For further risk reduction strategies, read about<span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><a style=\"color: #3366ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/how-to-avoid-manual-handling-risks\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> how to avoid manual handling risks<\/a><\/span> and the<span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><a style=\"color: #3366ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/hurak.com\/blog\/differences-between-risk-control-and-hazard-control\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> differences between risk control and hazard control<\/a>,<\/span> key topics in creating a safer environment.<\/p><div class=\"row\"><div class=\"col-12\"><div class=\"p-4 my-4\" style=\"background-color: #ededed;\"><h4><b>\ud83d\udcdaTake Your Fire Safety Skills to a Professional Level<\/b><\/h4><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A respected qualification for those managing fire risk or aiming for specialist roles.<\/span><\/p><p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Discover the <\/span><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><a style=\"color: #3366ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/hurak.com\/course\/nebosh-fire-safety-certificate\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">NEBOSH <\/span><\/a><\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Fire Safety Certificate<\/span><\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-340747e elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"340747e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2><strong>Final Thoughts<\/strong><\/h2><p>Whether you&#8217;re a site supervisor, office worker, or someone responsible for safety, understanding the types of fire extinguishers is a basic yet powerful skill. It can help protect not just your workplace, but your colleagues and your future.<\/p><p>When matched with proper training and a commitment to compliance, even the most basic knowledge, like recognising extinguisher colours or fire classes, can save lives.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-ea3c672 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"ea3c672\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2><strong>Frequently Asked Questions<\/strong><\/h2><h4>What are the different fire extinguisher colours and what do they mean?<\/h4><p>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 CO\u2082 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.<\/p><h4>What extinguisher should be used for electrical fires?<\/h4><p>For an electrical fire, the safest extinguishers to use are CO\u2082 extinguishers (black label) and dry powder extinguishers (blue label). These types are non-conductive and won\u2019t cause electrocution, unlike water or foam. CO\u2082 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\u2019re unsure, always look for extinguishers that explicitly state they are safe on Class E or electrical fires.<\/p><h4>What is a water extinguisher used for?<\/h4><p>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\u2019ll 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.<\/p><h4>What are the 4 main types of fire extinguishers?<\/h4><p>The four main fire extinguisher types commonly used in workplaces are water (red), foam (cream), dry powder (blue), and CO\u2082 (black). Each is suited for different fire classes:<\/p><ul><li aria-level=\"1\">Water: For solid materials (Class A)<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\">Foam: For solids and flammable liquids (Class A &amp; B)<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\">Dry Powder: For solids, flammable liquids, gases, and electrical equipment (A, B, C &amp; electrical)<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\">CO\u2082: Primarily for electrical fires and flammable liquids (electrical &amp; B)<\/li><\/ul><p>Wet chemical extinguishers (yellow label) are also widely used in kitchens, particularly in the hospitality sector, to handle Class F fires involving cooking oils.<\/p><h4>Which extinguisher should be used on flammable liquids?<\/h4><p>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). CO\u2082 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.<\/p><h4>What are the different classes of fire in the UK?<\/h4><p>In the UK, fires are categorised into six main classes of fire:<\/p><ul><li aria-level=\"1\">Class A \u2013 solids like wood and paper<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\">Class B \u2013 flammable liquids such as oils, fuels, or alcohols<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\">Class C \u2013 flammable gases like butane or propane<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\">Class D \u2013 combustible metals such as magnesium or lithium<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\">Class F \u2013 cooking oils and fats<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\">Electrical fires \u2013 involving powered appliances (not a formal class but treated uniquely)<\/li><\/ul><p>Each fire class demands a specific extinguisher, making it crucial to understand this system for safe fire management.<\/p><h4>What type of extinguisher should be used on different materials?<\/h4><p>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, CO\u2082, or dry powder. For electrical equipment, CO\u2082 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.<\/p><h4>What is the cream fire extinguisher used for?<\/h4><p>The cream fire extinguisher is a foam extinguisher. It\u2019s 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.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-fbf2059 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"fbf2059\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2><strong>Explore Related Courses<\/strong><\/h2><p>Looking to boost your confidence in handling fire safety and workplace risks? These trusted courses can help:<\/p><ul><li aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><a style=\"color: #3366ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/hurak.com\/course\/level-2-health-and-safety-in-the-workplace\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Level 2 Health and Safety in the Workplace<\/a><\/span> \u2013 Covers core safety principles, including fire prevention and hazard awareness.<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/hurak.com\/course\/fire-marshal-fire-warden-online\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\">Fire Marshal \/ Fire Warden Online<\/span><\/a> \u2013 Learn how to respond to workplace fires and lead safe evacuations.<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><a style=\"color: #3366ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/hurak.com\/course\/citb-site-supervisor-safety-training-sssts-online\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SSSTS (Site Supervisor Safety Training Scheme)<\/a><\/span> \u2013 Ideal for those supervising high-risk environments like construction sites.<\/li><li aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"color: #3366ff;\"><a style=\"color: #3366ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/hurak.com\/course\/citb-site-manager-safety-training-scheme-smsts\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme)<\/a> <\/span>\u2013 A comprehensive course for managers overseeing fire and site safety.<\/li><\/ul>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Fires are unpredictable, but your response to them doesn\u2019t have to be. Whether you&#8217;re working in construction, retail, hospitality, or an office, understanding fire extinguishers is essential. It\u2019s not just about reacting in emergencies; it\u2019s about being prepared, responsible, and compliant with UK workplace safety standards. This guide explains the various types of fire extinguishers, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":42,"featured_media":36761,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_eb_attr":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[7],"tags":[],"ppma_author":[35],"class_list":["post-36152","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-health-and-safety","author-shivanshu-mishra"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.9 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Fire Extinguisher Types and Their Uses | Colour Codes Guide<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Learn about the 6 types of fire extinguishers, their uses, and colour codes. 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