How to Choose the Right Fire Extinguisher
Fire extinguishers are essential equipment to install in your home because they serve as lifesavers in case of fire outbreaks. When installing the right type of fire extinguisher, ensure that it is strategically placed near an exit. Most fire extinguishers for home use are either class A, B, or C, which are indicators of the types of fire used to put off. Fire extinguishers are effective because you can put out a fire before the fire rescue fighters arrive to help you and suppress fire flames and prevent further spread of fire that could damage your property. Here are a few tips to consider when choosing the right type of fire extinguisher.
Check the Size of the Extinguisher
When choosing a fire extinguisher, consider finding a large one to effectively put out the fire easily but not so big that it is difficult for you to use it appropriately. Before choosing the correct size of fire extinguisher, consider the size of the room and how quickly the fire can spend given the hazards in the area. Most people are advised to buy a bigger fire extinguisher even though they may be heavier and hard to maneuver, but because they have a large amount of chemical insider the canister, and will enable you to put out a fire before it spreads.
Identify the Type of Fire Hazard
The type of fire hazard in your home will help you determine the most common fire to break out. Most fire outbreaks are caused by combustible materials such as gas and electrical appliances in your home. Choosing the right type of fire extinguishers will be based on the specific type of fire they can put out. The new types of fire extinguishers are fitted with labels to show the type of hazard used to extinguish.
Check the Classes of Fire and Ratings
Underwriters Laboratories test most fire extinguishers for performance and safety. The ratings allow you to know the effectiveness of different fire extinguishers. The numerical ratings on fire extinguishers show how much the extinguisher can put out a fire. The extinguishers are labeled in classes A, B, or C to indicate the type of fire that the extinguisher can put out. Class A is for ordinary combustibles such as paper, wood, and cloth. Class B is sufficient flammable fluids such as cooking oil or gasoline, whereas C is for live electricity.
The fire safety experts advise homeowners to join their training on using a fire extinguisher in case of emergencies and fire outbreaks. It is advisable to place fire extinguishers near exits, and in places you can easily access to help you fight the fire and escape if the room has big flames that you cannot handle.
