What is a fire extinguisher?

A fire extinguisher is a handheld or portable device designed for quickly extinguishing fires in their initial stage. Its purpose is to promptly stop the spread of flames before the arrival of a professional firefighting team or specialized equipment. Due to its compact size, ease of use, and high efficiency, the fire extinguisher has become an essential fire safety tool in offices, industrial facilities, public buildings, vehicles, and even residential apartments.

Structure and Working Principle

Every fire extinguisher consists of several main components:

• Body: A metal or composite cylinder that contains the extinguishing agent under pressure.
• Valve and activation mechanism: A valve, handle, or trigger lever that releases the extinguishing agent when pressed.
• Extinguishing agent: Depending on the type of fire extinguisher, this can be powder, foam, water, carbon dioxide, or another inert gas.
• Nozzle or hose: Directs the extinguishing agent directly to the fire source.

The working principle is simple: after removing the seal and activating the mechanism, the pressurized extinguishing agent is released through the nozzle, cooling the fire source, isolating it from oxygen, or creating a chemical barrier that stops combustion.

Types of Fire Extinguishers

There are several types of fire extinguishers, each with its own advantages and limitations:

1. Powder Fire Extinguishers:
   Used to extinguish most types of fires, including solid materials, liquids, gases, and electrical equipment.
   • Advantages: Versatility, low cost, wide temperature range.
   • Disadvantages: Leaves a hard-to-remove powder residue and does not cool surfaces, which may lead to re-ignition.
2. Foam Fire Extinguishers:
   Effective for extinguishing liquid and solid materials such as wood, paper, and flammable liquids.
   • Advantages: Environmentally friendly, leaves no harmful residue.
   • Disadvantages: Not suitable for electrical equipment, limited temperature range.
3. Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) Fire Extinguishers:
   Uses compressed carbon dioxide gas, which cools and displaces oxygen.
   • Advantages: Leaves no residue, suitable for electrical equipment.
   • Disadvantages: Can cause frostbite, efficiency decreases at low temperatures.
4. Water Fire Extinguishers:
   Designed for Class A fires (solid combustible materials).
   • Advantages: Environmentally friendly, leaves no harmful residue.
   • Disadvantages: Not suitable for flammable liquids or electrical equipment.
5. Halotron and Aerosol Fire Extinguishers:
   Used in areas where preserving valuable materials is crucial (museums, archives).
   • Advantages: Minimal impact on surrounding objects.
   • Disadvantages: More expensive compared to other types.

Fire Classes and Corresponding Extinguishing Agents

Fire classification helps determine which type of fire extinguisher is needed for a specific situation:

• Class A: Solid materials that can smolder (wood, textiles).
• Class B: Flammable liquids (oils, paints, alcohols).
• Class C: Gaseous substances (methane, propane).
• Class D: Light metals and their alloys.
• Class E: Live electrical equipment.
• Class F: Substances that burn without requiring oxygen.

Tips for Choosing a Fire Extinguisher

When selecting a fire extinguisher, consider:

• Size and purpose of the premises.
• Type of fire that may occur.
• Temperature range in which the device will be used.
• Cost and maintenance requirements.

Rules for Using a Fire Extinguisher

Before using a fire extinguisher, you must:

1. Ensure it is safe to use (no risk of poisoning or explosion).
2. Remove the seal and pull out the safety pin.
3. Direct the hose at the base of the flames.
4. Press the lever, discharging the extinguishing agent in short bursts.
5. After the fire is completely extinguished, ensure that flames do not reignite.

Modern Standards and Certification

Modern fire extinguishers are manufactured in strict compliance with international and national standards. In Ukraine, the primary regulations include fire safety rules and certification requirements issued by the State Emergency Service (DSNS). Each fire extinguisher undergoes rigorous testing before being sold to ensure compliance with safety requirements. Certification guarantees that the device operates efficiently and can be used without risk to health and the environment.

A fire extinguisher is not just a device but a vital element of fire safety. Proper selection, competent maintenance, and timely use can save lives, protect property, and prevent significant damage.