Types of fire extinguishers
Depending on the type of material used
1. Dry Powder Extinguisher
Usage: Type A, B and C fires (solids, flammable liquids, and gases).
The drawback: It leaves a lot of residue after extinguishing.
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2. Carbon dioxide (CO₂) fire extinguisher
Usage: Electrical and flammable liquid fires (B and E).
Effectiveness: Excellent for electrical appliances as it leaves no residue.
Disadvantage: It is not suitable for solid materials such as wood and paper, and may cause suffocation if used in a closed space.
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3. Foam Extinguisher
Use: Fires involving flammable liquids and solids (A and B).
Effectiveness: It covers the surface with a foam layer that prevents oxygen from entering.
Disadvantage: Not suitable for electrical fires.
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4. Water extinguisher
Usage: Solid material fires only (A).
Effectiveness: Effective in fires caused by paper, wood, and fabric.
The disadvantage: It is very dangerous to use it in electrical fires or flammable liquids.
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5. Halon Extinguisher – Limited Use
Usage: Precision equipment such as servers and aircraft.
Effectiveness: Very effective and leaves no trace.
The drawback: It is banned in many countries due to its environmental impact.
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Types of fires and their classification:
Type of flammable material, suitable extinguisher
A. Solid materials (paper, wood, fabric) – Water – Powder – Foam
B. Flammable liquids: foam – CO₂ – powder
C. Flammable gases (powder)
D. Flammable metals, special powder
E. Electrical fires CO₂ CO2_ powder
F. Cooking oils and fats (kitchens) Special kitchen fire extinguishers (Wet Chemical)