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Competitive prices on fire extinguisher testing, fire extinguisher maintenance and fire extinguisher installation.
We supply, maintain, refurbish and commission all types of fire extinguishers. There are no hidden extras in our pricing, allowing you to budget accordingly.
The work we do is to the highest professional standards, and the price we charge is fair for the level of service you receive.
There is one price for each extinguisher which includes all tests and standard spare parts - you only pay extra when a five yearly test is due, or the extinguisher is damaged / used.
Folgate Safety's Guide to Fire Extinguisher Types
When it comes to fire safety, having the right fire extinguisher can make all the difference. In the UK, different types of fire extinguishers are available to combat various classes of fires.
Each type is color-coded and designed for specific fire risks. Knowing which extinguisher to use is crucial for safety and effectiveness. Here’s a breakdown of the types of fire extinguishers available in the UK.
1. Water Fire Extinguisher (Red Label)
Best For: Class A Fires (Solid Combustibles like wood, paper, and textiles)
Description: Water extinguishers work by cooling the burning material and removing the heat needed for combustion. They are the most common and widely used type.
Not Suitable For: Electrical fires, flammable liquids, or metals.
2. Foam Fire Extinguisher (Cream Label)
Best For: Class A and B Fires (Solid Combustibles and Flammable Liquids)
Description: Foam extinguishers smother fires by creating a barrier between the fuel and the flames. They are versatile and often used in offices and homes.
Not Suitable For: Electrical fires or fires involving cooking oils (Class F).
3. Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher (Blue Label)
Best For: Class A, B, C Fires (Solid Combustibles, Flammable Liquids, and Gases)
Description: Dry powder extinguishers work by forming a barrier on the surface of the fire, stopping the chemical reaction. They are multi-purpose and can be used on electrical fires as well.
Not Suitable For: Fires in enclosed spaces, as the powder can reduce visibility and breathing.
4. CO2 Fire Extinguisher (Black Label)
Best For: Class B Fires and Electrical Fires (Flammable Liquids and Electrical Equipment)
Description: CO2 extinguishers work by displacing oxygen, which is essential for the fire to burn. They are commonly found in places with a lot of electrical equipment, such as offices and server rooms.
Not Suitable For: Class A fires (like wood or paper) as CO2 does not cool the fire.
5. Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher (Yellow Label)
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Best For: Class F Fires (Cooking Oils and Fats)
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Description: Wet chemical extinguishers are specifically designed to tackle kitchen fires involving cooking oils and fats. They work by creating a chemical reaction that cools and seals the surface to prevent re-ignition.
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Not Suitable For: Most other fire types, although they can sometimes be used on Class A fires.
6. Water Mist Fire Extinguisher (White Label)
Best For: Class A, B, C, F Fires, and Electrical Fires (Solid Combustibles, Flammable Liquids and Gases, Cooking Oils, and Electrical Equipment)
Description: Water mist extinguishers are the most versatile, using ultra-fine water droplets that cool the fire and reduce the oxygen supply. They are safe to use on almost all fire types, including electrical fires, making them ideal for a wide range of environments.
Not Suitable For: Very specific industrial applications, but otherwise widely applicable.
7. Specialist Fire Extinguishers
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Best For: Class D Fires (Flammable Metals like magnesium, aluminium, lithium)
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Description: Specialist extinguishers are used for fires involving flammable metals. These are not common in most homes or offices but are crucial in industrial settings where such materials are present.
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Not Suitable For: Any other type of fire, as these are specifically designed for metal fires.
Fire safety is about preparedness, and having the correct type of fire extinguisher can prevent a small fire from becoming a disaster. It’s important to understand the different classes of fires and the extinguishers designed to combat them.
Regular checks and maintenance of your fire extinguishers are also essential to ensure they work when needed. Whether it's for home, office, or industrial use, selecting the right fire extinguisher is key to safety.
Call Folgate Safety now to discuss your fire safety needs: 01536 526138