Posted by admin , on Jul, 2015
Most people think that buying a fire extinguisher is a relatively straightforward task. Unfortunately, when you go to a fire equipment store, they will show you a variety of different types of extinguishers. At this point, you will be very confused. Which one should you buy? Installing an extinguisher in your building or house can save you from a lot of trouble. In case of a fire, you will have an extinguisher on hand. In most states, having an extinguisher on every floor of the building is necessary. You never know when an emergency may arise.
That is why you should have an extinguisher on hand. However, before you head out to a fire equipment company, it is important to know the many types of extinguishers. Fire can be ignited from many sources. Fire can be caused by a gas leakage. It may also be caused by fat, grease or any other flammable liquid. Traditionally, water was used to put out fires. However, it wasn’t long before we discovered better, more innovative options. For instance, oil fires cannot be doused simply with water. On the other hand, you should not use water in order to douse an electrical fire. Water is a very good conductor of electricity. Hence, throwing water on an electrical fire can electrocute you.
Extinguishers can be used to control small fires. You can’t use an extinguisher to douse flames that go as high as the ceiling. However, a fire extinguisher in Iowa could help you put out a small fire that is spreading rapidly. However, using the right type of extinguisher is necessary. Here are some of the most common classes of extinguishers in use today:
Class A Extinguisher: The Class A extinguisher is mainly used for putting out fires caused by ordinary combustibles. These include paper, wood and certain types of plastics. The Class A extinguisher is the most common extinguisher in use today.
Class B Extinguisher: If you work around many flammable liquids (such as in a laboratory), you may need to purchase a Class B extinguisher. These extinguishers are used mainly to put out fires caused by flammable liquids.
Class C Extinguisher: The class C extinguisher is used for putting out fires caused by electrical equipment. Electricity sparks can cause a major fire outbreak.
Class D Extinguisher: Fires caused by metals can be put out by Class D extinguishers. The Class D fire extinguisher is commonly seen in metal industries and factories.
Class K extinguisher: The Class K fire extinguisher is used to put out fires that are caused by burning grease or fat. It often sports a picture of a flying saucepan on top.
