FIR/General/TBT-FIR-002

Fire Extinguisher Types and Use

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Fire extinguishers are the first response tool for tackling small fires before they grow out of control.
Using the wrong type of extinguisher on the wrong type of fire can make the situation worse or endanger you.
Water extinguishers (red label) are suitable for Class A fires involving paper, wood, textiles, and solid materials only.
Foam extinguishers (cream label) are suitable for Class A and Class B fires involving flammable liquids such as petrol and oil.
CO2 extinguishers (black label) are suitable for electrical fires and Class B liquid fires.
Powder extinguishers (blue label) are multi-purpose but create a visibility-reducing cloud and do not cool the fire.
Never use a water extinguisher on electrical fires or burning fat and oil — this causes violent reactions.
All fire extinguishers on site must be inspected monthly and serviced annually by a competent person.
The PASS technique is the correct method: Pull the pin, Aim at the base, Squeeze the handle, Sweep side to side.
Only attempt to fight a fire if it is small, you have the right extinguisher, and your escape route is clear behind you.

Correct response	Using the right extinguisher on a small fire prevents it becoming a major incident — the wrong type makes things worse.
Personal safety	You should only fight a fire if it is small, contained, and you have a clear escape route behind you — know when to leave.
Legal duty	The Fire Safety Order 2005 requires adequate firefighting equipment maintained and accessible throughout the site.

Don't

Learn which extinguisher type is correct for each class of fire before you need one.
Know the location of the nearest fire extinguisher to your work area every day.
Check that fire extinguishers are present, accessible, and have current service tags.
Use the PASS technique — Pull pin, Aim at base, Squeeze handle, Sweep side to side.
Only tackle a small fire if you have the correct extinguisher and a clear escape route.
Report any missing, discharged, or damaged fire extinguishers to your supervisor.
Evacuate immediately if the fire is too large, spreading, or producing thick smoke.
Attend fire extinguisher training so you are confident using one in an emergency.
Keep extinguishers clear of obstructions so they can be grabbed quickly when needed.
Replace or recharge any extinguisher that has been partially or fully discharged.

DON'T use a water extinguisher on electrical fires — it conducts electricity and causes shock.
DON'T use water or foam on burning fat, oil, or cooking fires — it causes a fireball.
DON'T ignore missing or discharged extinguishers — report them for immediate replacement.
DON'T fight a fire without checking your escape route is clear behind you first.
DON'T attempt to tackle a large or rapidly spreading fire — evacuate and call 999.
DON'T block access to fire extinguishers with materials, equipment, or stored items.
DON'T discharge extinguishers for fun or testing — they may be needed in an emergency.
DON'T assume you will remember how to use an extinguisher — attend training regularly.
DON'T re-hang a partially used extinguisher — it must be recharged or replaced.
DON'T turn your back on a fire you have just extinguished — it may reignite.

See also: Fire Safety Awareness on Site | Hot Works Fire Prevention

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