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ABC-rated multipurpose dry chemical fire extinguisher are the most common particularly in the corridors of the buildings.
They are almost always RED in color and have either a long narrow hose of no hose (just a short nozzle). These fire extinguishers are very light (5-25 lbs total weight). |
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Halon/Halotron fire extinguishers
Halon extinguishers look virtually identical to ABC multipurpose dry chemical fire extinguishers.
Halotron (A, B, C). A vaporizing liquid that is ozone friendly and leaves no residue. Because it requires no cleanup, fire extinguishers with halotron are ideal for computer rooms, telecommunication areas, theaters, etc.
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Wet Chemical fire extinguishers are silver in color and only found in areas that need protection from grease fire. Kitchens are a perfect example. Even with a fire supression system, a fire may rekindle or continue to burn from splash in areas that are not protected with the fire suppression systems.
WARNING! It is dangerous to use water or an fire extinguisher labeled "ONLY for Class A Fires" on a grease or electrical fire.
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Water extinguishers are generally only found in older buildings, schools and areas that do not have electrical equipment and/or flammable liquids. They are usually SILVER (chrome-metal) in color, have a flat bottom, have a long narrow hose, and are quite large ( 2- 1/2 gallons) |
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CO2 (carbon dioxide) extinguishers are generally red, have a LARGE nozzle (horn), are VERY HEAVY (15-85 lbs.) - some CO2 extinguishers for aircraft hangers or special industrial use are so large as to require roll-around carts to move them. These are all high pressure cylinders.
Care should be used not to drop a CO2 cylinder, as it is a high pressure device. (The containers are quite sturdy, but don't abuse them.) CO2 cylinders do not have a pressure gauge - they must be weighed to determine the amount of contents. |
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Installation and Maintenance |
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- Install your fire Extinguishers in plain view. Keep them out of reach of children and away from stoves and heating appliances.
- Read the operator's manual to learn how to inspect and maintain your fire extinguisher. Fire extinguishers require routine care.
- Rechargeable extinguishers must be serviced after every use. Disposable fire extinguishers can only be used once. Replace disposable extinguishers after use.
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Generally, you can tell with a glance which type an fire extinguisher is hanging on the wall, or in the cabinet, just by looking at its shape and/or color. Check the labels of the fire extinguishers in your area and note the color and shape/size of the extinguisher. This may help if someone runs in to help you fight a fire with the WRONG extinguisher (i.e. water on an electrical fire) - you can STOP them before they are injured or make matters worse!
Training
Seaboard believes in safety, and encourages their customers to be familiar with the
equipment we sell them. We have Trainers on call to help your organization get the
experience they need to reduce your losses by presenting classes where your staff can get
actual “hands on” training with fire extinguishers, and learn how fires react to suppression
agents. It’s something you don’t learn from a book! Call us today to schedule a course, where
we supply all the materials needed, and do it at your location.
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