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1. What does the color of the cylinder mean?

In most cases, absolutely nothing. One exception is that the polished stainless steel cylinders generally are simply pressurized water extinguishers.

2. Are there other differenced I should be aware of?

Definitely yes! Extinguisher are classified A, B or C, or some combination of these letters. This refers to the type of fire they are effective on.

3. What difference does the type of extinguisher make to the operator?

To understand this, you must understand that fires are classified according to what the fuel is that is burning. If a Class A extinguisher is used on a Class B fire, it will splatter and spread the burning liquid. If a Class A extinguishing agent (water) comes in contact with a Class C fire, there is the risk that the electrical current will come back through the stream of water and electrocute the extinguisher operator.

Classes of Fires

• Everyday ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, fabric and the likes are classified as Class A fires.
• Fires involving burning liquids are Class B fires.
• Fires involving any equipment which has an electrical current flowing into it is a Class C fire.

4. How do I discharge the extinguisher?

If you look at the two horizontal levers on top you will notice that there is a pin which prevents these levers from being squeezed together. While the pin is in place, there is little risk that the extinguisher will discharge accidentally. The lower lever is intended as the carrying handle.

To discharge, first break the tamper seal which holds the pin in place, then remove the pin. When you squeeze the two levers together, the extinguisher will discharge if it is fully pressurized.

5. Are there tactics I should be aware of?

Absolutely and those tactics which make for effective firefighting also protect the operator.

• Aim low and in front of the burning materials. This covers all of the burning materials, and it pushes the heat away from the operator.
• If you aim over the fire in an enclosed room, the extinguishing agent is discharged with enough force that it may bounce off the opposite wall, pushing the fire back towards the operator.
• Don’t let your excitement get you in too close to the fire before starting your discharge. It’s better to start back a little too far than to get too close.
• If necessary, and while continuing your discharge, step cautiously towards the fire until you see that is effective.
• While discharging, sweep the nozzle from side to side so you cover all of the burning materials.