What is Fire Extinguisher medium.com/@preventivefire330/what-is-fire-extinguisher-69f2630c0c51 September 5, 2022
A fire extinguisher is a device that is typically used to extinguish fires. It usually consists of a cylindrical container filled with an extinguishing agent, such as water, carbon dioxide, or a dry chemical. Some fire extinguishers also have a nozzle attached to the top so that the contents can be sprayed onto the fire. Fire extinguishers are classified according to their intended use. Some extinguishers are designed for use on Class A fires, which involve ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, or cloth. Others are meant for use on Class B fires, which involve flammable liquids such as gasoline or oil. Still, others are designed for use on Class C fires, which involve electrical equipment. — How to Use a Fire Extinguisher Fire extinguishers are devices used to put out fires It is important to know how to use a fire extinguisher properly in order to prevent serious injury or death. Fire extinguishers are usually found in public places such as schools, offices, and restaurants. They are also often found in homes. There are different types of fire extinguishers, but they all work by using either water or chemicals to smother the flames. Water-based extinguishers work by cooling the area around the fire and preventing it from spreading. Chemical-based extinguishers work by interrupting the chemical reaction that is taking place during a fire. — Steps on using a fire extinguisher Here are some steps on how to use a fire extinguisher: 1/3
1. Pull the pin at the top of the fire extinguisher. This will allow you to release the handle, which is used to operate the extinguisher. 2. The nozzle of the extinguisher should be aimed at the fire’s base. 3. To release the extinguishing agent, squeeze the handle. 4. Sweep the nozzle back and forth across the base of the fire until it is extinguished. — what is the best way to put out a grease or electrical fire There are a few ways to put out a grease or electrical fire, but the best way is to use a fire extinguisher. Fire extinguishers are designed to quickly and efficiently put out fires, and they can be a lifesaver in an emergency situation. When using a fire extinguisher, remember to aim at the base of the fire, not at the flames. This will help to smother the fire and prevent it from reigniting. Also, be sure to discharge the entire contents of the extinguisher on the fire — you want to make sure that the fire is completely extinguished before leaving the area. — How to distinguish fire? It is important to distinguish between fire and smoke based on the color of the flame. Red, orange or yellow flames indicate that there are carbon compounds burning in organic material while white plumes contain only water vaporization with no combustion involved at all. Class A Fires — Extinguishing Class A fires requires the use of a fire extinguisher. The three types of fire extinguishers are water, foam, and dry powder. Class A fires are fuel-based fires that involve ordinary combustibles such as paper, wood, or cloth. Water-based fire extinguishers are loaded with plain water and pressure-fed into the fire via a hose. Water-based extinguishers work by cooling the flames and depriving them of oxygen. Foam-based extinguishers are also loaded with pressurized water but also contain surfactants that help to smother the flames. Dry powder extinguishers contain a mixture of dry chemicals that work to smother the flames and deprive them of oxygen. Class B Fires — There are a few different types of fire extinguishers, each designed for a specific type of fire. Class B fires, which involve flammable liquids like gasoline or oil, require a different extinguisher than other types of fires. To extinguish a Class B fire, you’ll need an extinguisher that is marked with a “B” on the label. These will usually be water-based extinguishers, but CO2 and dry chemical extinguishers can also be effective. Class C Fires — The best way to extinguish a Class C fire is to use a fire extinguisher. It can also be done in other ways. One way to extinguish a Class C fire is to smother it with a heavy blanket or quilt. Another way is to use a garden hose turned on full blast. But the most effective and safest method is still to use a fire extinguisher. Class C fires are fueled by electricity, so it’s important not to use water on them. The situation can be made worse by the conductivity of water. Using a fire extinguisher is the best way to safely put out the fire. Class D Fires To extinguish a class D fire, you will need to use a fire extinguisher that is specifically 2/3
designed for that type of fire. Class D fires are those that involve flammable metals, such as magnesium, titanium, zirconium, or sodium. These types of fires can be very difficult to put out using conventional extinguishers. The first step is to identify the fuel involved in the fire. You will then need to find a fire extinguisher that is rated for that specific fuel. In most cases, this will be a dry chemical powder extinguisher. Once you have found the appropriate fire extinguisher, aim it at the base of the flames and discharge it until the flame is extinguished. Class K Fires Class K fires are those that involve cooking oils and fats. They’re extremely common in commercial kitchens, where hot oil is used for frying. To extinguish a Class K fire, you’ll need a special type of fire extinguisher. These are typically filled with wet chemicals, which work to smother the flames and cool the area around the fire. When using a Class K fire extinguisher, aim at the base of the flames and make sure to keep your distance from the fire. If possible, try to avoid getting any of the chemicals on your skin or clothing as they can be quite irritating. Interesting Facts about Fire Extinguishers -1. The first commercial fire extinguisher was patented in 1866 by Alanson Crane. -2. Carolus Linnaeus, the famous Swedish botanist who developed the modern taxonomy system for all living things, is credited with inventing the first fire extinguisher in 1723. -3. The first patented foam-based fire extinguisher was first introduced in England in 1902 after several devastating fires were caused by flammable liquids. -4. Since the extinguisher’s invention, over 400,000 lives have been saved. -5. The first fire extinguishers were built for use in homes and filled with potassium carbonate. -6. Fire extinguishers should be checked at least once a month and given an internal maintenance check every six years by a trained technician. -7. Fire extinguishers have an effective range of 6 to 10 feet.
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