Importance of Fire Extinguisher at Home & Work Places in Nepal.

Fire extinguishers are widely recognized as essential safety devices. Although it is not mandatory to install fire-fighting equipment in your home, having this valuable fire safety tool readily available is highly advisable. Fire extinguishers rank among the most effective fire protection measures you can implement, so continue reading to discover more.

Having a fire extinguisher at home is of paramount importance. Fires are among the most devastating incidents that can occur in a household. The prospect of losing your home, possessions, and valuables in an instant is frightening. Such disasters can happen so swiftly that individuals may find themselves overwhelmed, unable to respond appropriately or prioritize their actions during the emergency, particularly if they were not prepared for such an event.

It is vital to familiarize yourself with the necessary procedures to follow before, during, and after a fire. Being prepared and having a clear plan in place is far more advantageous than dealing with regret later on. This is why establishing a fire safety plan for your home and ensuring that every family member is educated on it is crucial. In times of danger, it is important to inform your family and friends about the steps to take and whom to call. They should know how to react rather than being paralyzed by fear, as indecision can lead to greater harm or damage. Imagine being in a threatening situation, unsure of how to proceed.

The outcome could be disorganized. Consequently, having a well-equipped arsenal is essential. It is equally important to have a fire extinguisher readily available in your home for emergencies. Although it may appear to be a simple tool, it is a key element in developing a comprehensive home safety plan. You might not find it necessary at this time, but there is a chance that you will in the foreseeable future, and it could be life-saving, including for yourself. However, owning a fire extinguisher alone is not sufficient. These devices are not merely for aesthetics; they serve a vital role in safety and cleanup efforts. Understanding when and how to use it, as well as the type of fire extinguisher required, is crucial.

Types of Fire Extinguishers for Home Use

ABC Stored Pressure Multi Purpose Type Fire Extinguisher:

ABC powder fire extinguisher is highly advantageous as it serves multiple purposes, ranking it among the most commonly employed extinguishers. This type of extinguisher releases a small amount of a reactive substance, usually mono ammonium phosphate, which suffocates and blankets the fire.

CO2 Type Fire Extinguisher:

CO2 fire extinguishers play a crucial role in industrial settings, particularly for tackling fires involving flammable liquids (Class B) and electrical fires related to large equipment. The extinguishing action of CO2 involves suffocating the flames, making it a safe option for electrical components, as it minimizes the risk of short circuits.

It is essential to be aware that CO2 extinguishers can become very cold when activated, and those without double-lined, frost-free swivel horns may cause discomfort or numbness in the fingers. They are not advisable for use in deep-frying scenarios, as the powerful discharge can eject burning oil from the fryer, creating further danger. Additionally, in confined areas, the use of CO2 can lead to asphyxiation. Moreover, since fires can quickly reignite after the CO2 has dissipated, these extinguishers do not provide effective post-fire safety.

Water Fire Extinguisher

Water extinguishers are designed to combat Class A fires, which involve materials such as paper, wood, and certain types of upholstery. These extinguishers are identifiable by their red color and are effective in dousing flames caused by combustible solids. The operation of a water fire extinguisher involves directing water through a spray nozzle, allowing for a broader coverage area. They are among the most straightforward and economical fire extinguishing options available, with prices starting around Nrs. 3555 for 3- or 6-litre models, Nrs. 5500 for 9-litre standard versions, for models designed to withstand freezing temperatures. Some units may include features that enhance usability and reduce overall weight, though these tend to be priced higher.

Water Based Fire Extinguisher:

Water extinguishers are easy to maintain and pose minimal risk. They extinguish flames by cooling the burning materials through water immersion, effectively removing heat from the fire. These extinguishers are commonly found in various settings, including commercial spaces, educational institutions, hotels, warehouses, and residential buildings.

Typically equipped with jet or jet needle nozzles, water extinguishers are capable of fully extinguishing fires. However, they are not suitable for use on fires involving flammable liquids (Class B), flammable metals (Class D), cooking oils or fats (Class F), or electrical fires, which is a notable limitation.

Fire Extinguisher for Gas Fire:

Gas fire extinguishers are specifically designed to minimize the amount of carbon dioxide in the air around flames, thus reducing the fire's potential to spread. They are generally regarded as more eco-friendly than powder or water extinguishers. However, the cold gas produced by these extinguishers can result in hypothermia if not handled properly.

Foam Based Fire Extinguisher

AFFF Foam-based fire extinguishers are often deployed, yet they possess a notable disadvantage: they are unsuitable for use on electrical appliances, which are commonly implicated in residential fires.

Wet Chemical Type Fire Extinguisher: Wet chemical fire extinguishers are specifically designed to tackle Class F fires, which involve petroleum-based substances such as fats and cooking oils. These extinguishers are essential in kitchen environments, especially where deep-fat fryers are present. They also have the capability to address Class A and some Class B fires. The extinguishing agent is a concentrated blend of alkali salts in water that, when deployed, generates a fine mist that mitigates flammable materials and inhibits their expansion.

The selection of fire extinguisher types according to the relevant class of fire is of utmost importance. To grasp the significance of possessing a fire extinguisher in your household, one must first learn about the various types available. There are only a few fire extinguishers intended for home use, each crafted to effectively manage different kinds of fires.

Class A: Class A fire extinguishers are essential for tackling fires that arise from ignitable solid materials, such as paper and hardwood. They are well-suited for spaces like a master bedroom or home office, particularly if you enjoy working with documents alongside lit candles, which can enhance your focus and relaxation. Keeping a fire extinguisher under your desk not only ensures safety but also offers reassurance while you engage in your tasks. These extinguishers effectively manage fires fueled by combustible solids.

Class B: Class B fire extinguishers are designed to handle fires involving flammable liquids, such as oil, gasoline, and grease. These extinguishers are particularly important in kitchens, where the risk of fire from such substances is high. In the Philippines, where kitchen fires are a common occurrence, it is crucial to have a fire extinguisher readily available. It is best to store it in a location that is visible and accessible, away from the burners, ideally near the kitchen entrance, to ensure quick access during an emergency.

Class C fire extinguishers are essential for extinguishing fires that originate from electrical equipment. Factors such as overloaded chargers, compromised wiring, and damaged power lines can lead to these types of fires. As remote work has become more prevalent during the pandemic, the importance of having a Class C extinguisher has grown. Our reliance on devices like laptops, smart phones, and other internet-connected gadgets necessitates the need for electrical safety. An energized electrical source can trigger Class A or B fires, but when the power is cut, the fire transitions to a Class C classification.

Class D: The elements categorized here are titanium, zirconium, magnesium, and sodium, all of which are combustible metals that can cause fire hazards.

Class K: This class focuses on the transmission of oils or fats derived from animals or plants, specifically in the context of cooking-related fires.

In any fire scenario, the following four categories will invariably exist: Fuel, Heat, Oxygen, and Chain Reaction.

The operation of portable fire extinguishers is based on the idea that a fire can be suppressed by removing one or more of its four fundamental elements. Since the characteristics of the fuel, heat source, and chemical reactions differ among fire types, it is essential to have specialized extinguishers for each category. For instance, while water is suitable for extinguishing Class A fires, it is not appropriate for Class C fires, as it can conduct electricity and potentially harm the user.

How to choose the right fire extinguisher for your home?

Choosing the right fire extinguisher for your residence requires careful thought on a few essential aspects. The first point to consider is the weight of the extinguisher. It is crucial that you and others in your home can handle the extinguisher with ease in case of a fire. Look for extinguishers that are lightweight and easy to transport, facilitating quick and effective use. Additionally, check the extinguisher's capacity, which is usually indicated by its weight in kilograms.

Location - Position fire extinguishers in areas of your home where the risk of sparks igniting a fire is highest, particularly in the kitchen. Consider whether you will keep firefighting supplies on the premises. Planning for the future may lead you to decide on fewer structures than initially anticipated.

Always ensure that fire extinguishers are stored out of reach of children to prevent accidents or damage to the fire safety equipment during play.

Identifying fire hazards in the living room:

Given the abundance of furniture, drapes, and carpeting alongside lighting elements such as candles, fireplaces, and overloaded electrical sockets, it is understandable that many fires originate in the living room. Here is a practical checklist to identify and address these fire risks.

Residential Wiring

It is crucial not to disregard potential fire hazards that may be hidden from view, particularly when it comes to inspecting household wiring for signs of wear and strain. A certified electrician should conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your home’s electrical system, but homeowners can also take proactive steps by visually inspecting plugs and sockets for any damage. For more insights, check out Electrical Safety First.

Toaster Crumbs - The accumulation of breadcrumbs in the toaster can lead to significant smoke production, often triggering smoke detectors during breakfast preparation. Additionally, these crumbs pose a fire hazard as they can easily ignite and result in a kitchen fire.

For those who appreciate fried foods, it is advisable to invest in an electric deep-fat fryer equipped with a thermostat. A pot filled with hot, bubbling oil is not only hazardous but can also ignite if it reaches excessive temperatures.

It is essential to maintain cleanliness in cooking appliances and to regularly replace extractor filters as necessary. When utilizing the chip, it is important to exercise utmost caution.

Electric blankets should be marked with the British Standard Kitemark and the British Electrotechnical Approvals Board (BEAB) symbol. They should never be folded to avoid damaging the wiring.

Decay Fire

Avoid lighting campfires on mornings with strong winds. Position fires away from fences and any clothing that may be hanging. Additionally, ensure that cans, batteries, or aerosol items are kept at a safe distance from the fire. Always have filled buckets of water nearby as a precautionary measure when starting a fire.

Fires in the home can arise from numerous sources, including defective electrical appliances, a candle that has been left unattended, or a frying pan that is not secured. A straightforward and budget-friendly method to enhance fire safety in your residence is to install fire extinguishers.

Let’s examine the various models of fire extinguishers and their intended uses.

It is important to ensure that each level of your home is equipped with a fire extinguisher. This allows for quick access for you and your family in case of a fire, no matter where you are in the house. Although you might be concerned about how it affects your home’s appearance, the safety of your family should always take precedence.

Size of Fire Extinguisher: Additionally, the size of the fire extinguisher is a critical factor. Choosing the appropriate size for your home is vital. Smaller extinguishers are typically more practical for residential settings, as larger ones can be too heavy to maneuver. In emergency situations, swift action is necessary, and a bulky extinguisher may hinder your response.

The distribution of fire extinguishers reveals that 37% are dry chemical types, while 27% are CO2 extinguishers. Additionally, 20% of the extinguishers in use are water-based, and 10% are foam extinguishers.

FAQ on Fire Extinguisher Types & Expiry:

Key information regarding fire extinguishers includes the following:

They require recharging after each use, have a limited lifespan, and various types are necessary for different classes of fires and fuels.

Regular maintenance is essential, and the P.A.S.S technique should be adhered to during operation.

Powder fire extinguishers are effective for outdoor applications and can combat Class A, B, and C fires.

Many models are also safe for use on live electrical equipment's.

They come in various sizes and configurations, making them suitable for both large and small areas, including vehicles, and are ideal for addressing different types of fires.