What are the Different Ways To Extinguish a Fire?

1/10/2023 (Permalink)

Extinguishing a Fire

Fire is one of the most destructive forces on earth. It can cause extensive damage to both property and human life, so it's important that you have a basic understanding of fire extinguishing methods. This article will highlight some common ways to put out fires and give you an idea of what form of fire-suppression equipment is best for different types of fires.

Water

Water is the most common method of putting out a fire, and this is due to its effectiveness in extinguishing all kinds of flames. Water can be used to cool hot surfaces or even douse an open flame that has begun spreading to nearby combustible materials.

However, water should not be used against electrical fires; in fact, you should stay as far away from them as possible. Also do not use water on fires where hydrocarbons are burning (like gasoline). You’ll want to keep some distance between yourself and these as well—they tend to explode when they come into contact with water!

Foam

If you're unsure of what type of fire you're dealing with, the first step is to use foam. Foam is a chemical agent that can be used on class A and B fires. Class A fires are defined as combustible solids and include things like paper, wood and cloth; class B fires are flammable liquids or gasses such as gasoline, oil and natural gas. If your fire is electrical in nature—no matter what kind of wire it's connected to—you'll want to use foam as well.

Foam should always be applied with a hose because it can travel quickly over long distances. It can also coat large surfaces while remaining effective against most flames at all times during application (unlike water).

Carbon Dioxide

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a non-toxic and non-corrosive gas. It is heavier than air, so it will sink to the bottom of a room. This makes CO2 ideal for use in enclosed spaces such as offices and laboratories where it can be pumped in through vents or pipes.

Due to its effectiveness at extinguishing fires in enclosed spaces, CO2 is also one of the most commonly used fire suppression agents worldwide. However, because CO2 does not displace oxygen from open spaces (and therefore doesn't put out fires), it isn't as effective at putting out flames outdoors or in other large areas where there are plenty of available oxygen molecules for combustion.

Halogenated Agents

Halogenated agents are chemicals that contain bromine, chlorine, or fluorine. These chemicals are used to extinguish fires in flammable liquids. They are toxic and corrosive, so they must be handled carefully by trained firefighters. Halogenated agents should not be used on electrical fires because they can cause sparks that will spread the fire further.

Dry Powder

Dry powder extinguishers are used on fires that involve flammable liquids, such as gas and oil. They are not effective against electrical fires or fires that involve combustible metals.

Wet Chemical

The other type of extinguisher you may encounter is a wet chemical, also known as a "ABC" extinguisher. These are used on flammable liquids and are designed to put out fires made from oil, gasoline, paint, etc. It is important to note that not all fire extinguishers can be used on every type of fire; in fact, using the wrong type of extinguisher could make your situation worse! If you're unsure about what kind of damage your particular fire can cause, it's best to consult with someone who has experience in dealing with such instances before attempting to fight it yourself.

It's wise to have several different types of fire extinguishers throughout their house—especially for those who live alone. This will give everyone more options when faced with an emergency and allow them some peace of mind knowing that help is close by should harm come their way due to a blaze getting out-of-control too quickly. 

If you have fire damage, call SERVPRO of Monroe, Randolph & Washington Counties. We are available 24/7 and can be at your location quickly. Our team is certified and trained to handle all aspects of fire damage restoration. Additionally, we can help with your insurance claim so that you don't have to worry about anything other than getting back to living your life.

Fire damage can be devastating. If you’re in need of fire repair services in your Columbia, IL home or business, look no further than SERVPRO. We have the training and equipment to handle your smoke and water damage quickly and efficiently. Call us today!