Whenever there is a fire involved, the first action is to call for the firefighters. However, in the time that it takes for the professionals to arrive, a fire extinguisher can help you put out or control the fire. Portable fire extinguishers help you do exactly that. They act as first-aid or emergency units on small fires or in the initial stages of a fire outbreak. Though the discharge time on most portable units is only seconds, this will help you plan an escape route.
You can count on the professionals at Cease Fire Solutions to provide the best quality portable fire extinguishers for your property.
Types of Portable Fire Extinguishers
Fires are the result of adequate heat, oxygen, any combustible material that acts as fuel, and a chemical reaction. Removing any one of these elements will extinguish the fire. It is important to note that different classes of fire require different types of extinguishers. Using the wrong extinguisher can lead to the fire spreading or even cause an explosion.
The types of fire extinguishers are:
Dry Powder Extinguisher: Dry powder extinguishers put out fires by interrupting the oxidation process. The dry chemical powder is stored under pressure inside the extinguisher cylinder and when the hand-held trigger valve is depressed, it is expelled. These can be used on Class A (wood, paper, cloth), B (petrol, fats, oils), and C (flammable gases such as methane, propane, and butane) fires. It is especially ideal for vehicle fires.
Carbon Dioxide Extinguisher: These extinguishers are suitable for fires involving flammable liquids and electrical hazards. Since it is harmless to delicate materials, it is ideal for all electrical risks where oils, spirits, etc, are in use. Carbon dioxide extinguishers contain liquid CO2 which is expelled as a gas. The gas blankets the fire as it is heavier than air. This cuts off the oxygen supply to the fuel, effectively putting off the fire.
Foam Extinguishers: These extinguishers are more versatile than water extinguishers. The foam in the extinguisher smothers the surface of the burning material, preventing re-ignition.
Wet Chemical Extinguishers: This type of extinguisher is suitable for Class F fires, involving cooking oils and fats. A wet chemical extinguisher forms a soapy foam blanket over the burning oil, smothering it and cooling it below its ignition temperature.
Water Extinguishers: Water extinguishers are one of the most popular fire extinguishers and are suitable for Class A fires only. The water expelled from the extinguisher cools the fire and interrupts the exothermic reaction of a self-sustaining fire.
At Cease Fire Solutions, we provide a wide range of fire protection systems to help protect lives and property. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
