Which Extinguisher Should I Buy?
To ensure quality and availability of warranty, portable fire extinguishers must be made by a reputable manufacturer. Equally important, the extinguisher must be tested and listed by The Underwriters' Laboratories (UL). Look for the UL label on the extinguisher. The extinguisher must be labeled as to the type of fire it can extinguish. Using the wrong type of extinguisher for the fire you are fighting may make the fire worse and jeopardize your life. For example, the use of water or a Class "A" extinguisher on a grease or electrical fire is extremely dangerous.
The three basic "types" of extinguishers are:
Class A: Ordinary combustibles. Fires in paper, wood, rubbish, drapes and upholstery. These require an extinguisher labeled "A".
Class B: Flammable liquids. Fires in gasoline, fuel oil, cooking oils, solvents, paints and flammable gases. These require an extinguisher labeled "B".
Class C: Electrical fires. Fires involving Class "A" or "B" materials and live electrical power - overheated wiring, fuse boxes, stoves, motors etc. These require an extinguisher labeled "C".
Numbers are also used with letters for extinguishers labeled for class A and B fires. The larger the number, the larger the fire the extinguisher can put out. Extinguishers rated ABC Multipurpose provide the required protection for all of the above fire types. When purchasing fire extinguishers and smoke alarms, look for the Underwriters' Laboratories Label. This is your assurance that the equipment has been tested and will perform satisfactorily provided it is used and/or installed in accordance with the listing specifications.
Does My Extinguisher Require Maintenance?
Many extinguishers require regular care. Read your operator's manual and contact your dealer for inspection and servicing information. Recharge reusable models after every use. Remember that you can only use disposable fire extinguishers one time--replace them after use.