Fire Extinguishers

5/19/2016 (Permalink)

Do you know how to tell if the fire extinguisher you grab from the wall is the correct one you should be using? Every fire extinguisher has a nameplate that identifies what type of class or classes of fires it should be used on.

CLASS A FIRES 
These are fires which have glowing embers when they burn, like wood, paper or trash. Class A extinguishers contain water and should only be used on Class A fires. Used on gasoline or grease, it can spread the fire. Used on an electrical fire, it could cause electrocution.

CLASS B FIRES
Class B fires involve flammable liquids, fuel oils and gases. Gasoline, paint, solvents, paint thinners, grease, LPG and acetylene also fall under this class. Always use a Class B or Class ABC extinguisher.

CLASS C FIRES 
These are fires in electrical equipment where there is still a live electrical current. Use a Class BC or Class ABC extinguisher.

All that being said, your best bet is to have an ABC rated fire extinguisher. ABC fire extinguishers are very versatile. They are often the ideal choice because they are able to put out many different types of fires. They use monoammonium phosphate, which is a dry chemical that can quickly put out the fire. It is a pale yellow powder that is able to put out all three classes of fire: Class A for trash, wood and paper, Class B for liquids and gases, and Class C for energized electrical sources. The dry chemical smothers the fire. It can leave a residue once the fire has been put out, so keep this in mind when choosing this type of extinguisher.

Know where your fire extinguisher is kept, and know how to use it in the event of an emergency.

If you do have a fire, SERVPRO of Carbondale/Clarks Summit/Old Forge, the Scranton area's leader in smoke, fire and water cleanup and restoration can help make it "Like it never even happened." We are available 24/7/365. Call us if your home or business has experienced a fire and needs cleanup help in Lackawanna County at (570) 235-1646.