Types of Fire Extinguishers — and Why the Class Matters

Fires are grouped into classes based on what's burning — and choosing the right type of extinguisher for that class matters, since the wrong one can be ineffective or even dangerous.

• Class A — combustible materials such as wood, paper and fabric
• Class B — flammable liquids such as petrol, turpentine or paint
• Class C — flammable gases such as hydrogen, butane or methane
• Class D — combustible metals, including magnesium, aluminium and potassium
• Electrical fires — involving live electrical equipment; once the equipment is isolated, the fire reverts to whatever material is actually burning
• Class F — cooking oils and fats

Sofaru Hardware stocks dry powder, CO₂ and other extinguisher types suited to different classes, along with fire hose reels and related safety equipment — visit us or call ahead if you'd like help matching an extinguisher to your specific site or kitchen.