What types of fire extinguishers do I need?

Fire Extinguisher Classes

Fire extinguishers are rated for specific classes of fires based on the fuel type involved. Using the wrong class of extinguisher on the wrong type of fire can be ineffective or dangerous.

Class A — Ordinary Combustibles

Fires involving wood, paper, cloth, rubber, and most plastics. These are the most common fires in office and residential environments. Water-based and multipurpose dry chemical (ABC) extinguishers are rated for Class A fires.

Class B — Flammable and Combustible Liquids

Fires involving gasoline, oil, grease, solvents, and flammable gases. Required in automotive facilities, service stations, commercial kitchens, and any area where flammable liquids are stored or used. ABC dry chemical and CO2 extinguishers are effective.

Class C — Electrical Equipment

Fires involving energized electrical equipment — panel boards, motors, computers, and wiring. The extinguishing agent must be non-conductive. CO2 and dry chemical extinguishers are suitable. Never use water on an electrical fire.

Class D — Combustible Metals

Fires involving metals such as magnesium, titanium, and sodium. Found in manufacturing and research environments. Require specialized dry powder agents. Standard multipurpose extinguishers will not extinguish a Class D fire.

Class K — Cooking Media

Fires involving cooking oils and fats at high temperatures, common in commercial kitchens. Wet chemical extinguishers are required for Class K applications. A standard ABC extinguisher does not effectively suppress cooking oil fires.

Which Extinguisher Does My Building Need?

Most commercial buildings require ABC multipurpose dry chemical extinguishers in general areas. Commercial kitchens additionally require Class K wet chemical extinguishers. Areas with specialized electrical or chemical hazards may need CO2 or specialized units. NFPA 10 specifies placement requirements, including maximum travel distance to reach an extinguisher (75 feet for Class A hazards in most occupancies).

Contact us for a site assessment. We will evaluate your occupancy, hazards, and layout and recommend the correct type, size, and number of extinguishers.