FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
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100-CAH-01-IGDO © 2025, Workplace Safety & Prevention Services (WSPS)
1 877 494 WSPS (9777) | 905 614 1400 | WSPS.CA
Some fire extinguishers are suitable for one class of fire only; others can fight two or even three classes
of fire. However, no extinguisher will fight all four classes of fire. Figure 2 (below) gives examples of
specific types of fire extinguishers, how they work, and the class(es) of fire on which they can be used.
Figure 2: Specific Types of Fire Extinguishers and their Uses
TYPE OF FIRE EXTINGUISHER
(EXTINGUISHING AGENT)
USES
Water Pressurized, pump type
Cools fire
Use on Class A fires
Do not use on B or C fires
Multi-purpose Dry Chemical Stored pressure type
Smothers fire with layer of powder
Use on Class A, B and C fires
Chemical Foam Aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) type
Smothers fire with foam
Use on Class A and B fires
Compressed Gas Halon, CO
2
types
Smothers fire with gas
Use on Class B and C fires
Specialized Dry Powder
A blend of powdered graphite, granular sodium
chloride (NaCL) and fragments of Copper
Use on Class D fires
Selection
Using the wrong extinguisher to fight a fire can have serious results. For example, if a water- based
extinguisher is used on a flammable liquid fire (Class B fire), the fire may flare up, spread, and cause
personal injury to the user and others. If a water-based extinguisher is used to fight a fire, in or near
electrical equipment (Class C fire), the user could suffer an electric shock. Follow these steps in selecting
extinguishers for your workplace:
1. Conduct an assessment to identify your fire hazards and determine the type of extinguishers needed.
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