Fire Extinguishers

Choose the extinguisher by what can burn

Each type of extinguisher is made for certain kinds of fire. The wrong one can fail, and water on an oil or electrical fire makes things worse. Look at what is in the room first, then choose.

• ABC dry powder: the all-rounder for paper, wood, cloth, flammable liquids and gas, and safe on electrical equipment. Good for corridors, stairs, warehouses, shops and factory floors. It leaves a fine powder that needs cleaning afterwards.
• CO2: for electrical equipment and server rooms. It leaves no residue, so it does not damage computers and panels. It is not the best choice for paper, wood or cloth.
• Foam: for petrol, diesel, oil and paint, as well as solid materials. Use it in fuel stores, workshops and boiler rooms.
• Fire extinguisher ball: hangs over a risk such as a meter board or a machine, or can be thrown into a small fire.
• Fire blanket: for a pan or cooking oil fire in a kitchen, and for wrapping a person whose clothes are on fire.

Our guide Fire Extinguisher Types: Which One Do You Need? goes through every type in more detail.

Where to put them

Place extinguishers where people pass on the way out: near exits, on each landing of the stairs, and beside the risk itself, such as the electrical panel or the kitchen. Mount them on a bracket or stand so the handle is easy to reach, and keep the space in front clear. For a count, see How Many Fire Extinguishers Does Your Building Need?

Traditional fire points

Many factories and stores also keep a traditional fire point: a fire bucket stand with sand or water, a water drum, a fire hook and beater, and a fire equipment box to keep the tools together and protected.

Refill and servicing

An extinguisher needs a quick monthly look and a service by a trained person. It must be refilled after any use, even a short one. Read Fire Extinguisher Refill and Servicing: How Often? for a simple schedule. Our team can refill and service extinguishers on request.

Common questions