Factors to Keep in Mind when Buying Extinguishers
A fire extinguisher may not be very effective against a large-scale developed fire, but it is extremely effective in dousing an incipient fire before it goes out of control. This is what makes them so perfect for homes and offices. In fact, extinguishers are recommended even when we have a primary system like fire sprinkler. Extinguishers have the advantage of portability that can be very handy in dousing fires that are difficult to reach by other mechanisms. After all, a sprinkler’s reach is always going to be limited.
But buying a fire extinguisher requires careful thought. Despite their appearance of bright red cylinder, nit all extinguishers are the same. In fact, you will be confronted by a confusing variety when you go out to buy one. Other factors like the necessity of fire extinguishers refilling India must also be considered. If you need more help, here is our handy extinguisher guide:
Selecting the right type: All extinguishers may look the same, but they are actually quite different. Extinguishers are classified according to the type of fire, which depends on the accelerants present. The accelerant is be the material that is found on the premises and will differ from one location to another. The classification of fire is as follows:
- Class A: Fires involving organic solids like paper and wood.
- Class B: Fires involving flammable liquids like petrol and diesel.
- Class C: Fires involving flammable gases.
- Class D: Fires involving combustible metals.
- Class E: Fires involving electrical equipment.
- Class F: Fires involving cooking oil and fat.
The type of fire will decide the agent that we use to extinguish the fire. Agents used in firefighting are water, wet chemical, foam, dry chemical, dry powder, carbon dioxide, and vaporising liquid. Type A fire requires a water extinguisher, while a Type D fire requires a dry powder extinguisher. So, a water extinguisher may work in your bedroom, but for your kitchen you may need a wet chemical extinguisher.
Refilling services: A fire extinguisher requires refilling at certain intervals. This will be specified by the manufacturer. In addition, it must be refilled every time gas is expelled. You must keep these expenses in mind when buying an extinguisher. Find a fire extinguishers refilling India agency that offers the best package. For instance, some agencies offer a comprehensive maintenance package that includes repairs as well as refilling services that may be more economical in the long run.
Size of the area: How many extinguishers do you need? What should be the size? This obviously depends on the size of the area. A multi-storeyed building will need an extinguisher on each floor. The area of the floor and partitions within will again decide the number of extinguishers. For instance, a large floor with multiple rooms, offices or homes may need multiple extinguishers, while a small floor may work perfectly well with a single extinguisher. Your car with its limited space will require a small portable extinguisher.
Complexity of the extinguisher: Some fire extinguishers are more difficult to operate Carbon dioxide extinguishers, for instance, must be handled very carefully since the gas expelled is extremely cold. In such cases, it is important to ensure that you have people trained to use such extinguishers.
Location: Decide on the location of the extinguisher before you buy it. There are a few rules here that you must keep in mind:
- It must be installed above ground.
- It should be placed in a location where nothing obstructs it path.
- It should be clearly visible.
- It should be placed near an exit so that one does not have to walk into the fire to retrieve it.
- It should not be placed near an inflammable substance.
Rechargeable or Disposable: Rechargeable extinguishers have a metal valve where disposable extinguishers have a plastic valve. While the rechargeable may seem more expensive, it is more economical in the long-term. However, if you need the extinguisher for just a short time span, you may consider disposable extinguisher.
Certification: Every extinguisher must comply with the proper ISO certification. This means that it meets all the regulations regarding its working and safety. This is the minimum quality control that you must maintain.
So, before you buy an extinguisher, find out the type of fire that is likely to take place, the area and availability of fire extinguishers refilling India.