Fire Extinguishers
Types of Fire Extinguishers and Their Applications
Using the wrong extinguisher can make a fire worse. This guide explains the main extinguisher types, the fires they are designed for and where each is typically used.
Fire Safety Equipment
Portable and ancillary equipment that supports first response and the operation of installed systems — selected for the hazards present, installed in accessible locations and inspected at suitable intervals.
Service overview
What this service covers
Portable equipment gives trained occupants the means to deal with a small fire before it spreads. To be useful, the equipment must suit the type of fire likely to occur, be easy to find and reach, and be in working condition when needed.
Omega supplies and installs fire safety equipment with mounting, identification and handover information, and can include it in a periodic inspection programme.
Detailed scope
Service scope
Portable fire extinguishers
Extinguisher types suited to the classes of fire that may occur — water, foam, dry powder, CO₂ and wet chemical — with mounting, identification and handover information.
Fire blankets
For specific small-fire or clothing-fire scenarios where appropriate, such as kitchens, with placement, accessibility, user awareness and replacement planned.
Hose cabinets
Cabinets that protect and organise firefighting equipment, matched to the installed system and specification.
Fire hoses
Hoses selected for the system they serve, with couplings compatible with the installed valves and connections.
Nozzles and accessories
Branch pipes, nozzles, valves and connection fittings that complete hose and hydrant installations.
Mounting brackets and identification signage
Brackets, stands and signs that keep equipment secure, visible and easy to locate in an emergency.
Extinguisher selection — general guide
| Extinguisher type | Typical application |
|---|---|
| Water | Class A — solid combustibles such as wood, paper and textiles |
| Foam | Class A and Class B — solids and flammable liquids |
| Dry powder (ABC) | Classes A, B and C — solids, flammable liquids and gases |
| Carbon dioxide (CO₂) | Class B and electrical equipment hazards |
| Wet chemical | Class F — cooking oils and fats in commercial kitchens |
Colour coding and classifications vary by standard; final selection is confirmed by site assessment and applicable requirements. Users should receive suitable instruction and attempt firefighting only when it is safe to do so.
Typical components and deliverables
- Portable extinguishers
- Mounting brackets and stands
- Identification signage
- Fire blankets
- Hose cabinets
- Hoses and nozzles
- Valves and connections
- Handover information
- Periodic inspection
Benefits
Why it matters
Right equipment for the hazard
Extinguisher types are matched to the classes of fire that may occur in each area.
Easy to find and reach
Placement and signage are planned so equipment is visible and accessible.
Ready when needed
Periodic inspection helps confirm that equipment is charged, undamaged and in place.
Clear handover
Equipment schedules and locations are documented for your records.
Typical applications
Where it is used
- Hotel kitchens, corridors and plant rooms
- Offices and retail
- Workshops and warehouses
- Vehicles and generator rooms
- Schools and clinics
Relevant industries
Industries
It depends on what could burn in each area. Water suits ordinary combustibles, CO₂ suits electrical equipment, and wet chemical is designed for cooking oil fires. Colour coding and classifications vary by standard, so final selection is confirmed by site assessment and applicable requirements.
Many standards call for regular visual checks by the building owner plus periodic servicing by a competent person, often annually. The applicable requirements and manufacturer guidance determine the exact schedule.
No. Water conducts electricity and should not be used on live electrical equipment. CO₂ is commonly used for electrical hazards.
Users should receive suitable instruction and should attempt firefighting only when it is safe to do so. Raising the alarm and evacuating always come first.
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