Types of Fire Extinguishers

Whether you are dealing with a fire in your home or at your office, a fire extinguisher can help you put the fire out quickly. There are many different types of fire extinguishers available, so you should choose one that is right for your situation. They are available in handheld, cart-mounted and portable formats, depending on the type of vehicle you are using. You should always follow the instructions provided with your fire extinguisher. For instance, if you are using a handheld model, you should aim the nozzle at a low height and sweep it side-to-side. If you are using a cart-mounted extinguisher, you should aim it at the base of the flames.

Water-based fire extinguishers are the most versatile. They are used to put out burning liquids, gases and wood. They are available in a variety of different nozzles, such as jet and spray. They also have different UL ratings, depending on the type of vehicle you are driving. They are the least hazardous and are easy to maintain. They are also considered the least dangerous because the water absorbs heat and cools the fire. However, they cannot put out fires involving electrical appliances. They can be used in confined spaces, though, so you should be careful when using them.

Dry chemical fire extinguishers are also available. They reduce the oxygen level in the area where the fire is burning, so they are not recommended for indoor use. They can be used to put out small fires, but are not recommended for outdoor use in windy conditions. They also tend to dissipate quickly, so you should be careful in confined spaces. They are also not recommended for use on indoor fires, because they may cause mild respiratory irritation.

Carbon dioxide extinguishers are also available. These extinguishers contain pressurised carbon dioxide gas. These extinguishers can be used on electrical fires and are safe to use on electrical equipment. They do not leave any residue or short circuits, which can damage electrical equipment.

These extinguishers are also available in cartridge-operated form. They have a convenient recharge system, but they are more expensive than their dry chemical counterparts. They are available in the U.S. and in the rest of the world. In addition, they are available in dry powder types. However, they are not legal in most vehicles.

Air-pressurized water units are also available. They are typically painted red and contain 9.5 litres of water in a tall stainless steel cylinder. They are usually lined with polyethylene. This type of unit is easy to install, and is a good choice for commercial buildings. Unlike water-based extinguishers, they are not electrically-conductive, so they are not suitable for use on electrical fires. They are also inexpensive.

Fire extinguishers are often installed in commercial buildings, motor vehicles and aircraft. They are also required by law in many jurisdictions. In some jurisdictions, there are requirements to have annual inspections and more frequent service. These are usually performed by a qualified technician, but you should always check with your local fire department to ensure that your extinguisher is up to date and in good repair.