CO2 fire extinguishers use pure carbon dioxide to suffocate fire and leave behind no residue once the fire is extinguished. They were originally designed for class B fires, which are flammable liquid fires, such as oil, petrol and solvents, however, these days CO2 extinguishers are mainly used for the fire fighting on live electrical equipment. They are often installed next to foam extinguishers in offices with computers.
Powder fire extinguishers, also called ABC powder or dry powder extinguishers are powerful and versatile and can be used for class A (burning solids), class B (burning liquids) and class C (burning gas) fires. They can not be used on fat fires and deep fat fryer fires, as their jet would spread the burning fat. They should also not be used in confined spaces (small kitchen or boat cabins), as the powder can easily be inhaled. The residue of the powder makes the clean up after a discharge very difficult.
Water fire extinguishers are used on class A fires of solid combustible materials, such as wood, fabric and paper. The water penetrates burning materials to cool down the fire, which extinguishes the fire and stops it re-igniting. Near electrical equipment you should choose water fire extinguishers with additives, as these prevent electrocution. A new development are the ‘dry’ water mist extinguishers, which can be used on class A, B, C and F fires and are very easy to use. These can be installed in buildings, where extinguisher training of all residents/staff is not feasible, such as in HMOs etc. Dry water mist is suitable for A, B, C and F class fires.
Foam fire extinguishers are used on burning solids (Class A) and liquid fires (Class B), such as burning petrol. They are excellent in general office or home environments. The foam penetrates burning fabrics and solids and forms a cooling blanket of top of the fire. Foam extinguishers are widely used in office environments, as they offer a reasonably wide cover without the clean-up problem of a powder extinguisher.
Suitable for smothering and extinguishing fires in homes kitchens schools hospitals laboratories offices and factories. Environmentally friendly water-based coating. The suppleness and strength of the blanket ensures user confidence as it is well insulated yet easily drapes over the fire.
Full traceability through individual blanket batch numbering. Flush end caps for easy cleaning. All blankets comply with the latest European Standard BS EN 1869:1997 which supersedes the British Standard BS 6575:1985.