It’s normal to see fire extinguishers in workplaces or in public buildings, but what about in the home? It’s not actually a legal requirement to have a fire extinguisher in your home, which is why it’s less common to see them in domestic settings. However, it’s considered good practice to keep one handy, as extinguishers can be an essential tool for handling small fires.
What Fire Extinguisher Should I Buy?
There are many types of fire extinguishers, which use various materials such as foam, water, powder, and CO2 to extinguish fires. Look out for the codes on each extinguisher to see what it can be used for, notably, Class A for standard combustible materials such as wood, Class B for flammable liquids like oil or grease, Class C for electrical fires, and Class D for flammable metals.
Many extinguishers will have a combination of codes, such as ABC and AB, which means they can be used for more than one type of fire. It is essential that the adults in the home know how to use the extinguisher and have familiarised themselves with the types of fires it is suitable for.
Fire Risk Assessment
A fire risk assessment will help you decide which type of extinguisher you need, and may also guide you to other suitable purchases, such as a fire blanket. An assessment will also help you decide where to place the extinguishers.
It’s advisable to get a fire risk assessment carried out by an expert rather than do it yourself. If you need a fire risk assessment Gloucester, get in touch with a specialist provider like https://apmfireandsecurity.com/fire-risk-assessment/gloucester, who will visit your home and make a professional assessment.
Installing one or more fire extinguishers in your home can help in the case of a fire emergency. However, make sure the adults in the home know how to use the extinguisher and are knowledgeable about which extinguisher can be used for which type of fire. Consider getting a fire risk assessment to help you make a more informed decision on your fire extinguisher needs.