Choosing the Right Fire Extinguisher for Your Environment

Fire is a serious risk that can threaten the safety of your establishment, commercial space, offices, or even homes. Having the proper fire protection system in place can mean the difference between paying for proper equipment or losing your property to devastating smoke and flames. One of the most important fire safety tools is the fire extinguisher. But, not all fire extinguishers are created equal and choosing the right kind for your environment is crucial to maintaining a safe location. Taking the time to understand the different fire classes and corresponding extinguisher types, along with considering your environment can help you make the best choice for your needs.

First, consider the size of the room and how fast the fire might spread if there were to be an incident. For example, a large warehouse or garage is likely to burn more quickly than a small family room. As a result, a higher-rated fire extinguisher may be appropriate for the larger space.

Next, take into account the types of materials that might be present in the area, as well as the fire hazards. A class A extinguisher, which is typically labelled as A, uses water or dry chemicals to stop wood, paper, and fabric fires from burning. In contrast, a class B extinguisher is designed to stop flammable liquids and gasses from burning. Finally, a class C fire extinguisher is used to put out electrical fires.

Lastly, be sure to choose an extinguisher that is UL rated and approved. This designation means it’s been thoroughly tested by Underwriter’s Laboratory to ensure the device is safe and effective. Additionally, look for a gauge on the device that lets you know its pressure is low so it can be recharged in a timely manner.

Aside from having the proper fire extinguisher in place, you also need to train your employees on how to use it properly. A trained fire safety expert can teach employees the four-step PASS procedure, which includes pulling the pin, standing back, aiming at the base of the fire, and squeezing evenly to discharge the agent. Then, it’s important to keep your fire extinguishers in a safe place where they are easily accessible along evacuation routes.

For example, a wheeled fire extinguisher that’s easily maneuverable could be perfect for industrial environments such as a refinery or chemical plant, offshore oil platforms, heavy manufacturing, fuel loading racks, and airports. If you’d like to learn more about the proper fire safety tools for your business, contact us today. We can provide you with a no-cost, no-obligation fire safety consultation and quote. You can also schedule fire safety training for your employees, as needed. This way, they’ll be ready for any emergency situations that might occur.