Foam fire extinguishers are one of the most common types of fire extinguishers and one of the most versatile. They can be used for both flammable liquid and solid fires and are a good choice for all sorts of settings.
How can you identify a foam fire extinguisher?
P50 foam extinguishers, which are available from companies such as www.lsfiresolutions.co.uk/fire-extinguishers/ecoextinguishers/p50, will have the word ‘FOAM’ on a cream label on the extinguisher. There should also be an extinguisher ID sign located nearby.
They are available as 6-litre extinguishers, which is the most common type; in addition, you can buy 2-litre, 3-litre, and 9-litre versions.
What are foam extinguishers used for?
Foam extinguishers can be used for Class A fires involving flammable solids and Class B fires involving liquids such as paint, diesel, petrol, and oils. Foam extinguishers are not designed to be used on electrical fires, nor should they be used on cooking fires such as chip pan fires or blazes involving flammable gasses. It is important to understand the different fire extinguisher types to ensure the wrong one is not used in an emergency.
How do foam extinguishers work?
This type of fire extinguisher works by cooling flames and creating a blanket barrier between the air and the source of the fire. In the case of liquid fires, it is the vapours given off rather than the liquid that burns.
Benefits of foam fire extinguishers
Foam fire extinguishers are one of the most versatile types of fire extinguishers and are designed to stop fires from re-igniting. They are lighter than water extinguishers, non-toxic, and will not damage most materials. They are also mostly safe if they are inadvertently discharged on electrical blazes; however, this should never be done intentionally.
Who needs a foam extinguisher?
P50 foam extinguishers are useful for settings with various fire risks, including offices, factories, hotels, warehouses, and many other premises. They can offer far-reaching protection, especially when paired with CO2 fire extinguishers to be used on electrical fires.