🧯 Types and Working of Fire Extinguishers
Fire can happen anytime, especially in electrical work. So it’s important for electricians to know how to use fire extinguishers and understand their types and uses.
🔥 Classes of Fire
Fires are divided into different classes based on what is burning:
| 🔤 Fire Class | 🔎 Material Involved | 🔥 Example |
|---|---|---|
| Class A | Solid materials (wood, paper) | Burning paper, cloth, wood |
| Class B | Flammable liquids | Petrol, oil, paint fire |
| Class C | Flammable gases | LPG, CNG fire |
| Class D | Metals | Magnesium, aluminum fire |
| Class E | Electrical fires | Short circuit, live wires |
| Class F | Cooking oils and fats | Kitchen oil fire |
🧯 Types of Fire Extinguishers and How They Work
1. Water Type Fire Extinguisher 💦
✅ Use: Class A fires (wood, paper, cloth)
❌ Never use on electrical fires
🛠️ Working: Water cools the burning material to stop the fire.
2. Foam Type Fire Extinguisher 🧼
✅ Use: Class A & B fires (solids & liquids)
❌ Not suitable for electrical fires
🛠️ Working: Foam forms a blanket over the fire and cuts off oxygen.
3. Dry Chemical Powder (DCP) Extinguisher 🧂
✅ Use: Class A, B, C, and E fires
🌟 Very effective for electrical fires
🛠️ Working: Powder stops the chemical reaction of fire and separates oxygen from fuel.
4. CO₂ (Carbon Dioxide) Extinguisher 🧊
✅ Use: Best for electrical (Class E) and liquid (Class B) fires
🛠️ Working: CO₂ gas cuts off oxygen and cools down the fire area.
💡 Leaves no residue – safe for electrical equipment.
5. Wet Chemical Extinguisher 🍳
✅ Use: Class F (cooking oils & fats)
🛠️ Working: Forms a layer on hot oil, cools and stops fire.
📌 Safety Tips While Using Fire Extinguishers
🔌 Turn off the main power before using on electrical fires.
🧯 Always aim at the base of the fire, not the flames.
🧍 Stand at a safe distance while operating.
⏱️ Use the PASS technique:
Pull the pin
Aim at base
Squeeze the handle
Sweep side to side
📚 Conclusion
Understanding the types and working of fire extinguishers is essential for every electrician. It helps in:
🚫 Stopping fire accidents
🧑🏭 Protecting people and property
🧯 Ensuring workplace safety