🔥 Fire Extinguisher Types Guide

Know which extinguisher to use for each type of fire

⚠️ Always call 911 first. Only attempt to fight a fire if it is small and contained, you have a clear escape route, and you have the correct extinguisher.
CLASS A

Close-up view of vibrant blue and orange flames on a gas stove burner.

Photo by Kenny Fotos CR / Pexels

Ordinary Combustibles

Fuel: Wood, paper, cloth, rubber, plastics

Extinguisher: Water, foam, or dry chemical

How it works: Cools the burning material below ignition temperature

Common locations: Offices, homes, schools

CLASS B

A collection of red gas cylinders stored in an industrial setting, Dubai.

Photo by aboodi vesakaran / Pexels

Flammable Liquids

Fuel: Gasoline, oil, grease, paint, solvents

Extinguisher: CO2, dry chemical, or foam

How it works: Smothers fire by removing oxygen

Common locations: Garages, workshops, kitchens

CLASS C

An industrial fire alarm system mounted on a corrugated metal wall for safety and security.

Photo by David McElwee / Pexels

Electrical Fires

Fuel: Wiring, circuit breakers, appliances, computers

Extinguisher: CO2 or dry chemical (non-conductive)

How it works: Non-conductive agent displaces oxygen

Warning: Never use water on electrical fires

CLASS D

Close-up of a fiery furnace in an industrial setting emitting intense flames and sparks.

Photo by Willians Huerta / Pexels

Combustible Metals

Fuel: Magnesium, titanium, sodium, lithium, potassium

Extinguisher: Dry powder (specific to metal type)

How it works: Smothers and absorbs heat

Common locations: Laboratories, manufacturing plants

CLASS K

A chef uses a deep fryer to cook french fries. Indoor cooking scene.

Photo by Ron Lach / Pexels

Cooking Oils & Fats

Fuel: Vegetable oils, animal fats, cooking grease

Extinguisher: Wet chemical (potassium acetate)

How it works: Creates a foam blanket, cools and smothers

Common locations: Commercial kitchens, restaurants

Close-up of climber securing harness with carabiner and rope on indoor wall.

Photo by cottonbro studio / Pexels

P.A.S.S. Technique

P
Pull the pin to unlock the operating lever
A
Aim the nozzle low at the base of the fire
S
Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly
S
Sweep from side to side at the base of the fire
ClassWaterFoamCO2Dry ChemicalWet Chemical
A - Ordinary✅✅✅
B - Liquids❌✅✅✅
C - Electrical❌❌✅✅
D - Metals❌❌❌Special
K - Cooking❌❌❌✅