How a Fire Extinguisher Helps in Putting Out a Fire

A fire extinguisher is a portable device that is used to put out small fires. It contains a fire suppressant chemical that is expelled from the device when it is activated. Fire extinguishers come in different types, each designed to put out a specific type of fire. In this article, we will look at how a fire extinguisher helps in putting out a fire.

Types of Fire Extinguishers

There are five types of fire extinguishers, each designed to put out a specific type of fire. These are:

1. Class A fire extinguishers - used to put out fires on ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and cloth.
2. Class B fire extinguishers - used to put out fires on flammable liquids like gasoline and oil.
3. Class C fire extinguishers - used to put out fires on electrical equipment.
4. Class D fire extinguishers - used to put out fires on flammable metals like magnesium and sodium.
5. Class K fire extinguishers - used to put out fires on cooking oils like vegetable oil and animal fat.

How a Fire Extinguisher Works

A fire extinguisher works by expelling a fire suppressant chemical onto the fuel source of the fire, which then breaks the chemical reaction that is causing the fire to burn. The fire suppressant chemical can be in the form of foam, powder, or liquid, depending on the type of fire extinguisher.

When a fire extinguisher is activated, the fire suppressant chemical is expelled from the nozzle of the device, and a fine mist is produced. The mist covers the fuel source of the fire and breaks the chemical reaction that is causing the fire to burn. As a result, the fire is extinguished.

How to Use a Fire Extinguisher

Using a fire extinguisher is easy, but it requires some knowledge and practice. Here are the steps to follow when using a fire extinguisher:

1. Pull the pin - this will break the seal and allow you to use the device.
2. Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire - this is where the fuel source is.
3. Squeeze the handle - this will release the fire suppressant chemical.
4. Sweep the nozzle back and forth - this will cover the fuel source and extinguish the fire.

Conclusion

In summary, a fire extinguisher helps in putting out a fire by expelling a fire suppressant chemical onto the fuel source of the fire, which breaks the chemical reaction that is causing the fire to burn. It is essential to know the type of fire extinguisher to use for a specific type of fire and how to use it properly to maximize its effectiveness.

FIRE EXTINGUISHER GENERALLY HAS CARBON DIOXIDE IN IT AND FIRE NEEDS OXYGEN TO BURN. SO IF WE PUT THIS FIRE EXTINGUISHER ON THE FIRE, THEN OXYGEN SUPPLY WILL GET CUT OFF BECAUSE CARBON DIOXIDE IS HEAVIER THAN OXYGEN.