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Why Do You Need Fire Extinguishers?

Fire extinguishers are a critical first line of defence against fire. They allow small fires to be tackled quickly before they spread, helping to protect lives, property, and business continuity. 

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  • Legal Requirement for Businesses: Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, all non-domestic premises must have appropriate fire-fighting equipment, including fire extinguishers. Failure to comply can lead to fines or prosecution. 

  • Risk Reduction: Extinguishers can prevent a minor incident from becoming a major disaster, reducing damage and the burden on emergency services. 

  • Correct Type Matters: Different extinguishers are designed for specific fire classes (e.g., electrical, flammable liquids, combustible solids). Using the wrong type can make a fire worse, so selection must match your fire risk assessment.

When Should Fire Extinguishers Be Serviced?

Fire extinguishers are classified as life safety equipment under British Standard BS 5306-3, and must be maintained regularly:

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  • Monthly Visual Checks: Carried out by the responsible person to ensure extinguishers are in place, unobstructed, and undamaged. 

  • Annual Service: A competent technician must perform a full inspection every 12 months, checking pressure, seals, and overall condition. This is the recognised UK standard for compliance. 

Different Types of Fire Extinguishers

Water Extinguisher

  • Colour Code: Solid red

  • Use On: Class A fires (wood, paper, textiles)

  • Do NOT Use On: Electrical fires, flammable liquids, gases, or cooking oils

  • Common Locations: Offices, schools, residential areas

Foam Extinguisher

  • Colour Code: Cream

  • Use On: Class A and Class B fires (solids and flammable liquids)

  • Do NOT Use On: Electrical fires unless tested to 35kV; never on cooking oils

  • Common Locations: Garages, warehouses, mixed-risk environments

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CO2 Extinguisher

  • Colour Code: Black

  • Use On: Electrical fires and Class B fires

  • Do NOT Use On: Class A fires or cooking oils

  • Common Locations: Server rooms, offices with electrical equipment

Dry Powder Extinguisher

  • Colour Code: Blue

  • Use On: Class A, B, and C fires (solids, liquids, gases); some types for Class D metals

  • Do NOT Use On: Cooking oils; avoid indoor use due to inhalation risk

  • Common Locations: Workshops, fuel depots, outdoor areas

Wet Chemical Extinguisher

  • Colour Code: Yellow

  • Use On: Class F fires (cooking oils and fats)

  • Do NOT Use On: Electrical fires or flammable liquids

  • Common Locations: Commercial kitchens, catering environments

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