Extinguishers

A fire extinguisher is an active fire protection device used to extinguish or control small fires, often in emergency situations. It is not intended for use on an out-of-control fire, such as one which has reached the ceiling, endangers the user (i.e., no escape route, smoke, explosion hazard, etc.), or otherwise requires the expertise of a fire department. Typically, a fire extinguisher consists of a hand-held cylindrical pressure vessel containing an agent which can be discharged to extinguish a fire.

There are a number of types of portable fire extinguishers available. Each type of extinguisher may be rated for one or more classes of fire. In some cases, particular extinguishers are not only considered ineffective against certain classes of fire, they can be dangerous if used in those circumstances. The classes of fire are: 

Class A Ordinary Combustibles 

Class B Flammable and combustible liquids 

Class C Flammable gases 

Class D Combustible metals 

Class E Electrically energised equipment 

Class F Cooking oils and fats