If You Have Doubts

A water fire extinguisher is used primarily for extinguishing Class A fires, which involve solid combustible materials. These extinguishers are simple to use, highly effective, and commonly found in environments with significant fire risks from everyday materials.

Key Uses:

1. Class A Fires (Solid Combustibles):
   • Effective on fires involving wood, paper, textiles, cardboard, and similar materials.
   • The water cools the burning material, reducing heat and extinguishing the flames.

Not Suitable For:

• Flammable Liquids (Class B fires): Water can spread the fire.
• Electrical Fires: Water conducts electricity and poses a risk of shock unless the extinguisher is specifically designed and tested for electrical use.
• Flammable Metals (Class D fires): Water can react dangerously with some metals like sodium or magnesium.
• Cooking Oils and Fats (Class F fires): Water can cause violent splattering and spread the fire.

Advantages:

• Cost-Effective: Simple design and readily available extinguishing medium.
• Non-Toxic: Contains no harmful chemicals, making it safe for the environment.
• Ease of Use: Straightforward operation and application.

Water fire extinguishers are typically marked with a red label and are ideal for settings like offices, schools, warehouses, and homes where Class A fire risks are prevalent. Always assess fire hazards to ensure this extinguisher type is suitable for the intended environment.

Class A fires are generally caused by a naked flame or items of high temperatures coming into contact with combustible, carbonaceous materials.

Almost all premises are at risk of Class A fires due to the widespread use of such materials. This includes offices, schools, warehouses, hospitals, and anywhere that uses or contains paper, cardboard, wood, etc.

There are several types of fire extinguishers that can be used on Class A fires. These are powder, foam, water and wet chemical.

Water fire extinguishers display a red label.