Which Fire Extinguisher for Which Fire? Classes A, B, C & K

Fires are classified by what is burning — and using the wrong extinguisher can be ineffective or even dangerous. Here is a simple guide to the fire classes and the right extinguisher for each, from the Power Safe fire-safety team.

The fire classes

• Class A — ordinary combustibles: wood, paper, cloth, plastics.
• Class B — flammable liquids: petrol, diesel, oil, solvents, paint.
• Class C — energised electrical equipment: panels, motors, servers.
• Class K — cooking oils and fats in commercial kitchens.

Which extinguisher to use

• ABC Dry Chemical Powder — the most versatile choice, effective on Class A, B and C fires. Ideal for offices, factories, shops and homes.
• CO₂ — best for Class B and electrical (Class C) fires. It leaves no residue, so it is perfect for server rooms, labs and electrical panels.
• Water / Foam — for Class A (and foam for B). Never use water on electrical or liquid fires.
• Wet Chemical — purpose-built for Class K kitchen-oil fires.

The golden rules

• Never use water or foam on electrical fires.
• Match the extinguisher rating to the likely fire risk in each area.
• Keep extinguishers serviced and refilled — an empty or expired unit is useless.
• Remember P.A.S.S. — Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep.

Power Safe (a Vikas group company) supplies, installs, services and refills fire extinguishers and complete fire-safety systems across Rajasthan, Punjab and Haryana. Book a free fire safety audit to get the right protection for your premises.