A portable fire extinguisher is equipment that is used for extinguishing a fire. It is effective for extinguishing fire based on the type and size of a fire it is rated for. It is one of the most common fire extinguishing equipment that acts as a first response to the fire caused by anything like an electrical fire or fire caused by gas etc. In this article, we will learn about portable fire extinguishers, how it works and what are its benefits. Keep reading!
Portable Fire Extinguishers
Portable extinguishers are mostly provided as the “first attack” equipment in fire fighting. These should be used essentially in the early stages of a fire before it grows to an extent that is beyond the capacity of a portable extinguisher.
Types of Portable Extinguisher
Below are the most common types of portable fire extinguishers:
- Air-Water
- Wet Chemical
- Air-Foam
- Carbon Dioxide
- Dry Chemical Powder
Apart from the ones mentioned above, there is one more type of extinguisher called the Vaporising Liquid extinguisher. However, this type of extinguisher is no longer in use for retail or commercial purposes in many parts of the world. There are some special situations like marine and aviation when these extinguishers may be allowed but their applications are very limited.
How to Select the Right Portable Extinguisher?
Each portable extinguisher comes with a rating and capacity which determines the level of fire it can extinguish efficiently. So, the selection of an extinguisher should be based on the class or level of fire it is likely to extinguish.
Components of Portable Extinguisher
There are mainly five components that are common to almost all types of fire extinguishers. These are as follows:
- An extinguishing agent
- A storage vessel
- A propellant
- A directional nozzle
- A valve
All modern fire extinguishers have these five basic components. However, technological advancements have led to improvements in the performance of this equipment.
Portable Extinguisher Maintenance
All types of portable extinguishers require tests, periodic inspection, and maintenance at regular intervals of time. This keeps the performance of the equipment in check and makes sure it works to its full capacity when needed. Further, this maintenance activity can be done yearly, half-yearly, or after every use.
Because most portable extinguishers are pressure vessels, they also need to be inspected, discharged and tested by a licensed and approved team of professionals for any condition that is likely to render the vessel unsafe.
Takeaway
Portable fire extinguishers can be used as a first response to the common classes of fire. They are located throughout the building to facilitate the occupants to respond to a fire before it turns into a big accident. We hope this brief information about portable fire extinguishers helps you. In case you want to learn more about fire and safety, then enroll in the right fire and safety courses conducted by the best fire and safety institute in Sangli .