There are many different types of fire extinguishers out there targeted at stopping different kinds of blazes. Most homes and commercial buildings, however, rely upon an ABC multipurpose dry chemical fire extinguisher. This type of extinguisher puts out multiple types of fires, all of which are common in a non-industrial area. Read on to learn more about an ABC fire extinguisher and its potential value in your building.
Placing the Fire Extinguisher
Your should place your ABC extinguisher in an accessible area near the most likely place for a fire to occur. In many homes, this location is the kitchen. In offices, this may be a common area accessible to many employees. Once you have determined the spot for your fire extinguisher, you should consider what sort of ANSUL accessories of extinguisher you might need. Some example fire extinguisher accessories include brackets to hold the extinguisher, reflective signs that can be seen even when a corridor is filled with smoke, and cases to keep the extinguisher from getting damaged by impacts and drops. You can usually use the same fire extinguisher accessories supplier that provided you with your extinguisher in the first place.
Fires Fought by ABC Extinguishers
ABC rated fire extinguishers are named as such because they are designed to put out Type A, B, and C fires. Type A blazes come from normal combustibles, such as paper, wood, and fabrics. The chemicals put forth by an ABC extinguisher are cold enough to put these fires out before they spread. Type B fires include oils and liquid gases which can be made worse by simple exposure to water. The chemical suppressant in an ABC extinguisher smothers these fires, preventing them from feeding and growing worse. Type C fires include electrical blazes. It is imperative not to use normal water on these fires, as that can lead to electrocution. Instead, the non-conductive chemicals used in ABC extinguishers can put them out with safety to the individual fighting the fire, albeit with risk to the affected electronics.
Safety Measures for ABC Extinguishers
ABC extinguishers are by far the most common type of fire suppressant tool available for homes, businesses, and even some industrial areas. They do, however, require some degree of inspection and maintenance in order to work most effectively. For starters, do not store these extinguishers on the ground, as that can cause corrosion. A fire extinguisher cabinet is a better option. You also need to remember that the contents of an ABC extinguisher are under pressure and can become less effective over time. It helps to have your fire extinguishers inspected every few years and replaced periodically. You don’t want to have to use a fire extinguisher, but if you need to, it must work perfectly.
Almost every home and many business areas can benefit from ABC fire extinguishers. These form the basic front line of fire safety. Know which types of fires they can be effective on and make sure that everybody who frequents the building knows the basics of how to use one.
