Fire Extinguishers: Everything You Need To Know
Fire protection equipment is vital for offices and homes to protect against unexpected fires. Fire extinguishers are the first line of fire defense equipment to prevent small fires from developing into four-alarm blazes. Fire extinguishers serve different classes of fire.
Types of Fire Extinguishers
There are various types of fire extinguishers. They include:
a) Water-Fire Extinguishers
They are suitable for fires caused by paper, straw, wood, coal, solid plastics, and rubber. They quench the fire by soaking it in the water components and are a good fit for schools, hotels, retail premises, shops, offices, and domestic premises.
b) Water Mist Extinguishers
They are the most versatile and newest fire extinguishers using a technology that works across most classes of fire. They release microscopic water molecules, decreasing the oxygen levels in the air, which helps suffocate the fire. Like water fire extinguishers, they are recyclable and do not contain any chemicals.
c) Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguishers
It is one of the cleanest fire extinguishers because it leaves no residue and therefore does not require any cleanup. They contain pressurized carbon dioxide and are suitable for electrical fires and fires from burning liquids. It suffocates the fire by displacing oxygen without causing any damage to the electrical appliances or causing a short circuit.
d) Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher
It is suitable for kitchen fires involving fats and cooking oils. They have a solution made of potassium which, once sprayed on the fire, causes a thick soap-like substance that seals the liquid's surface preventing reignition.
Benefits of Fire Extinguishers
There are several benefits of fire extinguishers, including:
1. Portability
Since fire extinguishers are portable, you can carry them to the fire scene, making them reliable and instantaneous. They help stop small fires before they spread, causing more damage. When using extinguishers, it is crucial to understand the various types and their application to help increase the chances of quenching the fire.
2. Protect the Environment
When a fire gets out of control, it negatively impacts the environment because it releases greenhouse gases, which are a leading cause of global warming. The smoke released is also dangerous to your lungs and makes breathing unpleasant. Fire extinguishers help prevent these effects and conserve water, which would have been used to extinguish the fire.
3. Saves Lives
Fire extinguishers help reduce injuries and deaths from fires that have gotten out of control. The portability of fire extinguishers makes it easy to confine fires, saving many lives.
Bottom Line
Fire extinguishers are essential equipment in every apartment, institution, or home because they help extinguish small fires before they spread, causing such damage. They come with several benefits, including portability and ease of use. If you are a home or business owner, consider getting a fire extinguisher for your premises.