Experts say we should have at least one fire extinguisher in our home. Having one or more is good, but knowing the right type and how and when to use it also is very important.
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) classifies fires into five general categories:*
Class A fires involve ordinary combustible materials, such as cloth, wood, rubber, paper and many plastics. 
Class B fires include flammable liquids, such as grease, gasoline, oil and oil-based paints.
Class C fires are energized electrical equipment, such as appliances,
wiring, circuit breakers, tools, etc.
Class D fires are combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium,
potassium and sodium.
Class K fires involve vegetable oils, animal oils or fats used in cooking
appliances.
Here are the most common types of extinguishers, their best and, in some cases, worst applications:**
- Water. The water fire extinguisher, sometimes referred to as an APW or Air Pressurized Water, is recommended for use with Class A fires. Most importantly, APW extinguishers are not to be used to extinguish a flammable liquid fire as water may help the fire to spread. They are not recommended for electrical fires because water is a good conductor of electricity and may help to create a condition conducive to electrocution.
- Carbon Dioxide. Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers use pressurized CO2 to suppress fires. CO2 extinguishers usually are identified by their red color and horn that is used to spray the carbon dioxide. CO2 fire extinguishers displace the oxygen that is needed to keep a fire going with the non-flammable carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide is very cold when released so it cools the fire, as well. This type of extinguisher is appropriate for Class B and C fires.
- Dry Chemical. There are two types of dry chemical extinguishers: ABC used for A, B and C class fires; and BC used for Class B and C fires. Dry chemical extinguishers leave a blanket of non-flammable material on the extinguished matter that helps to reduce the likelihood of re-ignition. They also make a terrible mess ... but mess is better than fire!
- Wet Chemical. These newer extinguishers are tested and approved for Class K fires. They contain a potassium agent that is discharged as a fine mist. This helps prevent grease splash and fire reflash while cooling the appliance.
If extinguished quickly, a small fire may be merely a messy nuisance. But, if given the chance to grow, small fires can injure your loved ones and damage your home and your personal belongings. When used properly, fire extinguishers in your home can help extinguish small fires before they can cause significant damage. Please call me for more information and we can review your policy so you can be sure you have the coverage you want — just in case.
*http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/citizens/all_citizens/home_fire_prev/extinguishers.shtm
**http://www.ilpi.com/safety/extinguishers.html
P A S S
Before using your fire extinguisher, be sure to read the instructions. Here is an acronym for quick reference. Print this and place it next to your fire extinguisher:
Pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher. The pin releases a locking mechanism and will allow you to discharge the extinguisher.
Aim at the base of the fire, not the flames. This is important — in order to put out the fire, you must extinguish the fuel.
Sweep from side to side. Using a sweeping motion, move the fire extinguisher back and forth until the fire is completely out. Operate the extinguisher from a safe distance, several feet away, and then move toward the fire once it starts to diminish. Be sure to read the instructions on your fire extinguisher — different fire extinguishers recommend operating them from different distances. Remember: Aim at the base of the fire, not at the flames.
