In the face of a fire emergency, every second counts.
Knowing how to use a fire extinguisher properly can be the difference between containing a small blaze and watching it spiral out of control.
In Australia, it’s a legal requirement to have a portable fire extinguisher in the workplace, but simply having it on hand isn’t enough – employees need to know how to use extinguisher effectively.
With the right fire extinguisher training and knowledge, individuals can confidently tackle common types of fires, such as those involving flammable liquids, electrical equipment, and cooking oils, and ensure their personal safety in emergency situations.
What Are the Classes of Fires?
In Australia, fires are classified into six common types: Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, Class E, and Class F.
Class A Fires: Ordinary Combustibles
Any fire involving ordinary combustibles such as paper, wood, cloth, trash, or plastics is classified as a Class A fire.
These fires can be extinguished using water or foam fire extinguishers.
Class B Fires: Flammable Liquids and Flammable Gases
Fires involving flammable liquids, gases, or greases are classified as Class B fires.
These fires require an extinguisher that can smother the fire, such as carbon dioxide extinguishers, foam extinguishers, or dry powder extinguishers.
To combat Class B fires effectively, it’s crucial to identify the fuel source and shut it off, if possible. This type of fire can be particularly hazardous, as the fuel source can reignite if not properly extinguished.
Class C Fires: Electrical Fires
Class C fires involving electrical equipment such as appliances, wiring, or circuit breakers require a non-conductive extinguishing agent to prevent electrical shock. In these cases, you must use carbon dioxide or dry powder extinguishers.
For instance, a fire caused by a faulty electrical appliance would be classified as a Class C fire. Using a water extinguisher in this scenario will be extremely dangerous, as it could conduct electricity and cause further harm.
Class D Fires: Combustible Metals
Class D fires involve combustible metals like magnesium, titanium, or potassium. These fires require a specialised type of extinguisher, such as a dry powder extinguisher.
Gases like argon or helium can also be used to extinguish Class D fires. It’s vital to use the correct type of extinguisher, as using the wrong type can react with the metal and make the situation worse.
Class F Fires: Cooking Oils and Greases
Oils and greases used in cooking can ignite and cause a Class F fire. These fires require a wet chemical extinguisher, which can effectively cool the oil and prevent re-ignition.
What’s important to note is that water should never be used to extinguish a Class F fire, as it can cause the oil to splatter and spread the fire further.
Common Fire Hazards and Scenarios
- Kitchen Fires: Cooking with flammable materials like oils makes kitchens prone to fires, which account for over 40% of household fires in Australia.
- Electrical Fires: Faulty electrical equipment or appliances can cause dangerous electrical fires that spread quickly and are hard to extinguish.
- Industrial Fires: Flammable liquids, combustible metals, and electrical equipment can cause industrial fires, which can be catastrophic and require complex firefighting operations.
5 Uses of Fire Extinguisher
- Put out small kitchen fires: Use a fire extinguisher to quickly stop grease or cooking fires before they spread.
- Tackle electrical fires: Safely extinguish fires caused by faulty wiring or electrical equipment.
- Control minor chemical fires: Handle small fires involving flammable liquids or flammable gases in labs or industrial settings.
- Stop trash can fires: Quickly douse fires in waste bins before they escalate.
- Prevent vehicle fires: Keep a fire extinguisher in your car to deal with engine or fuel fires on the spot.
When Should You Use a Fire Extinguisher?
Keep in mind that a fire extinguisher is not a substitute for calling the emergency services or evacuating the premises.
It’s imperative to know when to use a fire extinguisher and when to prioritise personal safety.
Identifying Fire Hazards
Should you encounter a fire, quickly assess the situation to identify potential hazards, such as flammable liquids, electrical equipment, or combustible materials. This will help you determine the correct type of extinguisher to use.
Assessing the Situation Before Acting
Consider the size of the fire, the type of fuel source, and the proximity of the fire to other combustible materials.
With this information, you can determine whether it’s safe to attempt to extinguish the fire or if it’s better to evacuate the area and wait for the emergency services.
Note, your personal safety is paramount, so never take unnecessary risks.
4 Steps to Use a Fire Extinguisher
Step 1: Pull the Pin or Ring
Any obstruction that might prevent the extinguisher from functioning correctly must be removed.
This includes pulling the safety pin or ring, which allows the operator to discharge the extinguishing agent.
Step 2: Aim the Nozzle or Hose
The nozzle or hose should be aimed at the base of the fire, not at the flames themselves.
This helps to smother the fire by removing the fuel source.
Steps to aim the nozzle or hose correctly include ensuring a safe distance from the fire, identifying the fuel source, and directing the nozzle or hose at the base of the fire.
This is especially important when dealing with flammable liquids, electrical equipment, or combustible metals.
Step 3: Squeeze the Handle
Fire extinguishers work by releasing a pressurised agent that smothers or cools the fire.
To release this agent, the operator must squeeze the handle, which opens the valve and allows the agent to flow.
Another crucial aspect of squeezing the handle is ensuring the correct type of extinguisher is used for the specific type of fire.
Using the wrong type of extinguisher can exacerbate the situation, making it more dangerous.
For example, using a water extinguisher on electrical fires can conduct electricity, causing harm to the operator.
Step 4: Sweep the Extinguishing Agent
Steps to sweep the extinguishing agent effectively include moving the nozzle or hose from side to side, covering the entire area of the fire with the agent.
This ensures that all fuel sources are removed and the fire is completely extinguished.
Hose direction and movement are critical in sweeping the extinguishing agent.
The operator should move the hose slowly and steadily, ensuring that the agent is dispersed evenly and reaches all areas of the fire.
Where to Put Fire Extinguisher
Many people know that having a fire extinguisher is vital, but they often overlook the importance of placing it in the right location.
Accessibility and Visibility
Extinguisher placement is critical to ensure quick access during emergency situations.
It should be placed in an area where it can be easily seen and reached, such as on a wall or in a corner, at a floor level that is easily accessible.
Proximity to Fire Hazards
Hazardous areas, such as those with electrical equipment, cooking oils, or flammable liquids, require fire extinguishers to be placed nearby.
This ensures that in the event of a fire, the extinguisher is within a safe distance to respond quickly.
Fire hazards, such as electrical fires or oil fires, can spread rapidly, so it’s crucial to have a fire extinguisher nearby to respond promptly.
For example, in a commercial kitchen, a wet chemical extinguisher should be placed near cooking stations that use flammable oils.
Similarly, in areas with electrical equipment, a carbon dioxide extinguisher should be nearby to tackle electrical fires.
Safety Tips and Maintenance
All fire extinguishers require regular maintenance and inspection to ensure they are functional and ready for use in emergency situations.
- Choose the correct type of extinguisher for the type of fire you may encounter.
- Ensure the extinguisher is easily accessible and not obstructed.
- Regularly inspect the extinguisher for signs of damage or wear.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for maintenance and testing.
- Train personnel on the proper use of fire extinguishers.
- Thou shall not use a fire extinguisher as a doorstop or for any other purpose than its intended use.
The fire extinguisher should be inspected monthly and thoroughly examined annually or as recommended by the manufacturer.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Regularly inspect and maintain your fire extinguishers to prevent devastating consequences.
- Avoid using the wrong type of extinguisher for a specific fire.
- Ensure you always have a clear escape route.
- Only use a fire extinguisher if you have proper training to avoid injury or further damage.
- Do not attempt to fight a rapidly spreading or large fire with a portable extinguisher.
- If a fire is too big to handle, evacuate immediately and call emergency services.
- Place fire extinguishers where they are easily accessible and near exterior doors.
- Position fire extinguishers in areas where most home fires start.
- Make sure everyone knows the location of your fire extinguishers.
- Share your fire escape plan with house-sitters and babysitters.
- Replace fire extinguishers after they expire.
The Importance of Fire Extinguisher Training in the Workplace
According to the Australian Government’s fire safety regulations, it is a legal requirement for workplaces to provide employees with proper training on the use of portable fire equipment.
- Having a fire extinguisher in the workplace is crucial, but it is equally important to ensure employees know how to use it effectively.
- Proper training can make the difference between successfully putting out a fire and making it worse.
- Employees should undergo training to understand the different types of fires and corresponding types of extinguishers, including the colour codes (e.g., blue band for electrical fires, yellow band for flammable gases).
- Practical training and regular drills are essential to ensure employees’ confidence and competence in using fire extinguishers.
- Employees should know the correct procedures to follow in an emergency, including identifying the correct extinguisher type, operating it safely, and knowing when to evacuate and call emergency services.
- Regular drills help identify any weaknesses in the workplace’s fire safety procedures and ensure employees are prepared for a real emergency.
- Comprehensive fire extinguisher training reduces the risk of injury or damage during a fire and ensures a safe and efficient response.
Fire Extinguisher Types
Once again, it’s necessary to understand the different types of fire extinguishers available, as each one is designed to combat specific classes of fires.
Also, understanding the fire extinguisher colours in Australia is essential for safety. Each colour indicates a specific type of fire it can combat.
For example, blue bands are for electrical fires, while yellow bands are for flammable gases.
Here are the common types of fire extinguishers:
- Water Extinguishers (Class A).
- Foam Extinguishers (Class A and B).
- Dry Powder Extinguishers (Class A, B, and C).
- Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers (Class B and Electrical Fires).
- Wet Chemical Extinguishers (Class F).
- Specialist Extinguishers.
| Type of Extinguisher | Class of Fire |
| Water Extinguishers | Class A (Ordinary Combustibles) |
| Foam Extinguishers | Class A and B (Flammable Liquids) |
| Dry Powder Extinguishers | Class A, B, and C (Electrical Fires) |
| Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers | Class B and Electrical Fires |
Water Fire Extinguishers (Class A)
To combat Class A fires involving ordinary combustibles such as paper, wood, and cloth, water fire extinguishers are the most effective. These extinguishers are colour-coded with a red band.
Water extinguishers work by cooling the fuel source and removing the heat element from the fire triangle.
Foam Fire Extinguishers (Class A and B)
Foam fire extinguishers are versatile because they can combat both Class A and B fires.
Foam fire extinguishers are colour-coded with a blue band.
Foam fire extinguishers work by smothering the fire, removing the oxygen element from the fire triangle.
Dry Powder Extinguishers (Class A, B, and C)
The versatility of dry powder extinguishers makes them a popular choice, as they can combat Class A, B, and C fires.
These extinguishers are colour-coded with a yellow band.
Dry powder extinguishers work by smothering the fire and removing the fuel source from the fire triangle.
Carbon dioxide Extinguishers (Class B and Electrical Fires)
Class B fires involving flammable liquids and electrical fires require carbon dioxide extinguishers. These extinguishers are colour-coded with a black band.
Carbon dioxide extinguishers work by displacing oxygen and removing the heat element from the fire triangle.
Water should never be used on electrical fires, as it can conduct electricity and increase the risk of injury.
Wet Chemical Extinguishers (Class F)
Limitations of wet chemical extinguishers include their specific design for combating Class F fires involving cooking oils and fats.
These extinguishers are colour-coded with a yellow band.
Wet chemical extinguishers work by cooling the fuel source and removing the heat element from the fire triangle.
They are commonly found in commercial kitchens and food preparation areas.
Specialist Extinguishers
Work environments with unique hazards, such as laboratories or industrial facilities, may require specialist extinguishers designed to combat specific types of fires.
Tips for choosing the correct type of fire extinguisher include considering the types of fires that could occur in your workplace and selecting extinguishers that are easy to use and maintain.
Note: Be mindful of proper training and understanding of fire extinguisher types are crucial in emergency situations.
Additional Considerations
Not all fire extinguishers are created equal, and it’s necessary to consider various factors before choosing the correct type for your needs.
Fire Extinguisher Size and Capacity
A larger extinguisher may be needed for bigger spaces or areas with more significant fire hazards.
For instance, a commercial kitchen may require a larger extinguisher than a small office space.
It’s crucial to choose an extinguisher that can effectively put out a fire in your specific environment.
Fire Extinguisher Certification and Compliance
It’s vital to ensure that your extinguisher meets the necessary certification and compliance requirements, such as those set by the Australian Standards (AS) and the National Construction Code (NCC).
For instance, AS 2444 sets out the legal requirements for portable fire extinguishers, including their selection, installation, and maintenance.
Furthermore, the NCC requires that fire extinguishers be installed and maintained in accordance with the relevant Australian Standards.
Failure to comply with these regulations can result in legal consequences and compromise workplace safety.
Remember to always follow the safety procedures and guidelines outlined in your workplace emergency plan and ensure that you have received proper training on the correct use of fire extinguishers.
You can also enrol in a fire extinguisher training course, such as those offered by AlertForce, to learn more about fire safety and emergency procedures.
Fire Extinguisher Certification Courses
Fire extinguisher training courses are designed to educate individuals on the safe and effective use of portable fire extinguishers.
These courses typically include both theoretical and practical training, covering topics such as fire safety procedures, types of fires, and how to operate different types of extinguishers.
This type of training is crucial in ensuring that individuals can respond correctly in emergency situations.
Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive certification, which is often a legal requirement in Australian workplaces.
The certification process typically involves a written exam and a practical demonstration of proficiency in using a fire extinguisher.
Remember to check out AlertForce’s fire extinguisher training courses, designed to provide you with the knowledge and skills necessary to respond safely and effectively in emergency situations.
Additionally, ensure that your workplace has a fire safety plan in place, including regular inspections and maintenance of portable fire equipment, such as smoke alarms and fire extinguishers.
Fire Extinguisher Inspection and Maintenance Checklist
Monthly Inspections:
- Conduct thorough checks along with daily visual inspections.
- Check the pressure gauge to ensure it’s within the recommended range.
Annual Inspections:
- Perform a comprehensive examination of the extinguisher’s mechanical parts and overall condition.
- Have a trained professional conduct the inspection, following the manufacturer’s guidelines and Australian standards.
- Inspect hoses, nozzles, and other components for damage or wear.
Record-Keeping and Documentation:
- Keep annual records of inspections and maintenance, noting the date, time, and actions taken.
- Maintain these records to ensure compliance with Australian regulations.
- Store records in a safe, easily accessible location, like a fire safety logbook.