Types of Fire Extinguishers in Nairobi, Kenya
Understanding the different types of fire extinguishers can make a critical difference during a fire emergency. Different fires involve different materials, and using the wrong type of extinguisher can be ineffective or even dangerous.
ABC Dry Powder
Multi-purpose extinguisher for Class A, B & C fires
— most commonCO₂ Extinguisher
Residue-free for electrical equipment
— server rooms & ITWet Chemical
For commercial kitchen fires
— cooking oils & fatsCommon Types of Fire Extinguishers in Kenya
The most commonly encountered fire extinguishers include water, foam, dry powder, ABC, CO₂, wet chemical, and clean agent extinguishers. Each is designed to deal with particular types of fire.
Water Extinguishers
Primarily designed for fires involving ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, cardboard, cloth, and textiles. Works by cooling the burning material.
- Class A fires
- Offices, schools, warehouses
- Not for electrical or flammable liquid fires
Foam Extinguishers
Used for fires involving flammable liquids and ordinary combustible materials. The foam forms a layer over the burning material, separating fuel from oxygen.
- Class A & B fires
- Workshops, garages, storage areas
- Forms a cooling blanket
Dry Powder Extinguishers
Use specially formulated powder to interrupt the chemical reaction that sustains combustion. Different formulations are designed for different fire risks.
- Class B, C & electrical fires
- Industrial facilities, workshops
- Leaves residue
ABC Dry Powder
Among the most versatile portable extinguishers. Designed for multiple categories of fire involving ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, and certain electrical hazards.
- Class A, B & C fires
- Offices, shops, homes, schools
- Most popular general-purpose extinguisher
CO₂ Extinguishers
Widely used where electrical equipment presents a fire risk. Discharges carbon dioxide to suppress combustion without leaving residue.
- Class B & electrical fires
- Server rooms, IT rooms, control rooms
- No residue
Wet Chemical Extinguishers
Specifically designed for cooking-oil and cooking-fat fire hazards, making them essential in commercial kitchens. Never use water on a cooking-oil fire.
- Class F fires
- Hotels, restaurants, commercial kitchens
- Specialized for cooking oils
Clean Agent Extinguishers
Designed for applications where minimizing residue and contamination is important. Suitable for sensitive equipment and specialized environments.
- Class B & electrical fires
- Data centres, control rooms, labs
- Residue-free
Special-Purpose Extinguishers
Some environments contain specialized fire hazards that require specialized extinguishing agents. Examples include laboratories, metal-processing, and chemical-handling areas.
- Specialized fire risks
- Laboratories, chemical plants
- Hazard-specific
Understanding Fire Classes
Understanding fire classes is essential when selecting fire extinguishing equipment. Different fires require different extinguishing media.
Class A
Ordinary combustible solid materials such as wood, paper, cardboard, cloth, and textiles.
Class B
Flammable liquids such as petrol, diesel, paints, solvents, oils, and certain industrial chemicals.
Class C
Flammable gases such as LPG, propane, butane, and other flammable gases.
Electrical
Energized electrical equipment including electrical panels, computers, servers, control panels, and machinery.
Class F
Cooking oils and fats in commercial kitchens. These require specialized extinguishing equipment, commonly wet chemical extinguishers.
Fire Extinguisher Comparison
A quick reference guide to help you understand which extinguisher is suitable for different fire risks.
| Extinguisher Type | Typical Fire Risks | Common Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Water | Ordinary combustibles (Class A) | Offices, schools, storage |
| Foam | Ordinary combustibles and certain flammable liquids | Commercial premises, workshops |
| Dry Powder | Multiple applications depending on formulation | Workshops, industrial areas |
| ABC Powder | Multiple common fire risks | Offices, shops, homes, commercial premises |
| CO₂ | Electrical equipment and certain fires | Server rooms, electrical rooms |
| Wet Chemical | Cooking oils and fats | Commercial kitchens |
| Clean Agent | Sensitive equipment and specialized environments | Data centres, IT rooms |
Note: The table is a general guide. The correct extinguisher should always be selected according to the actual fire hazards, extinguisher rating, manufacturer instructions, and applicable fire-safety requirements.
How to Choose the Right Fire Extinguisher
Choosing a fire extinguisher is not simply about buying the largest or cheapest cylinder available. Consider these factors.
Type of Fire Risk
Identify the materials and processes that could potentially catch fire in your premises.
Location
An extinguisher suitable for a kitchen may be completely different from one required in a server room or workshop.
Extinguisher Rating
Consider the manufacturer's fire-rating information rather than relying only on the extinguisher's agent type.
Size & Accessibility
The required number and size depend on building layout, fire hazards, travel distances, and occupancy. Extinguishers should be positioned for quick access.
Need the Right Fire Extinguisher?
Don't wait until a fire emergency to discover that you have the wrong fire extinguisher. Our fire safety specialists can help you identify the appropriate equipment for your premises.