Things You Didnt Know About Your Fire Extinguisher

10/9/2014 (Permalink)

Every home should have at least one fire extinguisher, but did do you know the different tips and safety tips surrounding your fire extinguisher?  Portable home fire extinguishers are not meant to fight big and fast spreading fires.  They are meant for small in home fires that are able to be controlled. 

There are 3 different classes of fires, and as a result there are three different classes of extinguishers: A, B, and C. Which class of fire is your extinguisher rated for?  A red slash through any of the symbols tells you the extinguisher cannot be used on that class fire. A missing symbol tells you only that the extinguisher has not been tested for use on a given class of fire.  

Class A: Ordinary combustibles such as wood, cloth, paper, rubber, and many plastics.

Class B: Flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil, grease, tar, oil-based paint, lacquer, and flammable gas.

Class C: Energized electrical equipment including wiring, fuse boxes, circuit breakers, machinery, and appliances.

Many home fire extinguishers are multi-purpose, so you might see multiple letters on yours at home.  That being said, if all you have is a Class C fire extinguisher for a class A or B fire, do not be hesitant to use it.