Global Scene Magazine

Some people may believe that there is only one kind of fire extinguisher in the market, but there are many more types available for usage in homes as well businesses. Basically, there are four subdivisions of Fire Extinguishers. Each of them has a specific role in different types of fire to be handled. The four subdivisions are placed into class A, class B, class C, and class D. The first classification i.e. class A is used for ordinary articles like wood, plastics and papers. Flammable liquids like kerosene, gasoline or oil fall into the category of class B. electricity related fires are handled through class C extinguishers. However, using water in that case could be dangerous as there is always the risk of electrocution. Class D extinguishers are used to tackle chemical fires, generally caused by combustible metals. They do not find usage at homes and are usually employed at chemical labs.

Various fire extinguishers put out each of the categories. Carbon dioxide extinguishers, water extinguishers and dry chemical extinguishers are some of the most commonly seen extinguishers in our daily household. Water extinguishers are categorized in only class and extinguishers. Basically, they perform function using air pressure to spread the water. However, if they are used on grease fires, electric fires or in any other class D fire, then instead of controlling fire it causes the fire to grow and spread. Therefore, it can be dangerous to use them as class D fires.

Dry chemical extinguishers are another kind of extinguishers and they are sometimes referred to as powder fire extinguishers. They usually contain powders or foams and nitrogen for pressurizing the tank. Dry chemical extinguishers can be put to any of the class a, class B or class C. they have a limitation that they leave a corrosive residue behind when used. So, it is advisable to clean the extinguishing foam off will prevent intrusion of any extra layer of residual corrosion.

Carbon dioxide extinguisher is used to put out class B and class C category of fires. They basically use highly compressed carbon dioxide filled tanks. These extinguishers cannot put out class A fires. There are a plenty of different choices available in the market when it comes to fire extinguishers. The choice is purely dependent on your need and the type of home. You can have different extinguishers for different parts of your house. First step is to recognize your need and then everything becomes clearly visible.