Are There Different Types of Fire Extinguishers?

7/6/2022 (Permalink)

Did you know there are multiple types of fire extinguishers?

You probably have a fire extinguisher in your home, but do you have the right kind? There are five classes of fire extinguishers and they each put out a different type of fire.

The five types:

• A: These are used on things like cloth, wood and paper and are most commonly in homes and businesses.

• B: This class is used on combustible and flammable liquids like grease, gas and oil. These are also common in homes and businesses.

• C: Electrical equipment such as appliances and tool fires are best put out with a C fire extinguisher. C class is common in homes and businesses.

• D: Class D is for use on flammable metals and is found in factories. 

• K: Commercial kitchens such as restaurants use K extinguishers as they are best used on vegetable oils, animal oils and fats used for cooking. 

While these are the most common types of extinguishers there are also multipurpose fire extinguishers that can be labeled as “B-C” or “A-B-C.” Class A through C are commonly carried at home improvement stores.

When a fire is burning through your home is not the time to learn how to use a extinguisher. If a fire in your Matthews, NC, home caused damage before you could put it out, be sure to call SERVPRO of East Mecklenburg/Matthews.

For more fire extinguisher safety visit the FEMA website.