Wormald’s Guide to Fire Extinguishers
How to safely use the right extinguisher for every class of fire
With National Fire Protection Month in September, we recognise the important role fire extinguishers play in helping to tackle small fires and prevent them from escalating, safeguarding lives and property. Whether at home, work, or in a public space, choosing the right fire extinguisher is crucial in preventing damage through effective, immediate action.
How to know which fire extinguisher to use
Understanding each class of fire and the appropriate extinguisher type to use on the fire, can make all the difference in an emergency, as sometimes using the wrong extinguisher on certain fires can increase or spread the fire, or put the user at risk.
There are six classes of fires depending on what is fuelling the fire, and six main types of fire extinguishers – water, foam, dry powder, carbon dioxide (CO2), wet chemical, and vaporising liquid. Each extinguisher can be identified by a coloured band representing the type and chemical components.
Types of Fires:
- Class A fire involving ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and plastic.
- Class B fire involving flammable liquids such as petrol, oil, and grease.
- Class C fire involving flammable gases
- Class D fire involving combustible metals, such as aluminium, lithium or magnesium
- Class E fire involving by electrical equipment
- Class F fire involving fats and cooking oils
Types of Fire Extinguishers in Australia:
- Water Extinguisher – Red Band: Suitable for class A fires
- Foam Extinguisher – Blue Band: Suitable for class A and B fires
- Dry Powder ABE/BE Extinguisher – White Band: ABE Extinguishers are suitable for class A, B, C, and E fires. BE Extinguishers are suitable for class B, C, and E fires
- Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Extinguisher – Black Band: Suitable for class E fires
- Wet Chemical Extinguisher – Oatmeal Band: Suitable for class A and F fires
- Vaporising Liquid Extinguisher – Yellow Band: Suitable for class A and E fires
Other fire prevention equipment:
- Fire Blanket: Suitable for class F fires
- Fire Hose Reel: Suitable for class A fires
How to use a fire extinguisher
Always check the label on a fire extinguisher to ensure it’s suitable for the type of fire you might encounter. Proper use of a fire extinguisher in an emergency is paramount to extinguishing or containing a fire until emergency services arrive on the scene. Wormald recommends to always be aware of emergency exits, keeping the door behind you while using an extinguisher.
To use a fire extinguisher, follow the PASS method:
P: PULL THE PIN – Break seal and test extinguisher.
A: AIM AT BASE OF FIRE – Approach the fire standing at a safe distance.
S: SQUEEZE THE OPERATING HANDLE – To operate extinguisher and discharge the agent.
S: SWEEP FROM SIDE TO SIDE – Completely extinguish the fire.
If ever in doubt about which extinguisher to use or if a fire gets too big, evacuate immediately and call emergency services.
During fire protection month, you can order our FREE know your fire extinguisher tri-fold cards.
