Fire Extinguishers
Stay Educated
There are six types of fire extinguishers. Modern extinguishers are all red, in line with
European standards, and must have a coloured label on them indicating what type of
extinguisher you are using (occasionally you may come across older units that may be
identified by their colour), but do not make assumptions, always check the label:
There are six types of fire extinguishers. Modern extinguishers are
all red, in line with European standards, and must have a coloured
label on them indicating what type of extinguisher you are using
(occasionally you may come across older units that may be
identified by their colour), but do not make assumptions, always
check the label:
Foam Extinguishers.
Used for fires involving burning liquids such as
paint and asphalt. They MUST NOT be used
on fires involving electrical equipment or oil.
Method of Use
Do not aim jet straight into the liquid. Where
the liquid on fire is in a container, point the jet
at a surface nearby the burning liquid. Allow the
foam to build up and run across the liquid.
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Extinguishers.
Water Extinguishers.
Used for materials such as wood, paper and textiles. They MUST
NOT be used on fires involving electrical
equipment or burning fat/oil.
Method of Use
Point the jet at the base of the flames and keep it moving across
the area of the fire. Ensure that all areas of the fire are out.
18 | Stay Ahead with Securitas Ireland - April 2019
Normally used on burning liquids such as
grease, fats, oil (not chip pan fires) and are
safe for use on fires involving electrical
equipment. CO2 extinguishers do not have a
cooling effect, consequently, they are not
recommended for use where there is a high
risk or re-ignition.
Method of Use
Discharge horn should be directed at the base
of the flames and the jet kept moving across
the area of the fire. Use carbon dioxide