Water Fire Extinguisher: The Traditional Approach In Fighting Simple Fires
Water has often been the first means utilized to put out a small fire as it is an element that can be very effective and useful against flames. Most home fires are caused by combustible materials such as paper, wood and fabric. With this idea in mind, it is no wonder that one of the most frequently seen extinguishers found in homes and establishments is a water fire extinguisher. Different countries have different approaches in labeling their extinguishers. In the United Kingdom, fire extinguishers are required to be red in color with a corresponding label to indicate its contents. A water extinguisher is usually a Class A model which has a red casing and a red label which designate its fillings. Some water extinguishers also contain certain additives which are very effective in extinguishing fires. One additive is potassium acetate. It forms a crust over fires and helps in decreasing impending damage.
Obviously, this fire equipment is very reliable in putting out fires. But it is not recommended to be utilized for extinguishing fires that originated from flammable liquids and gases. The waters effect to flammable liquids such as grease can become critical as it does not put out the fire rather intensifies the fire and causes it to spread even more. It is also very dangerous when used for electrical fires. Water, is known as a conductor, therefore using a water extinguisher in putting out a fire from electrical equipment can prove to be more hazardous and risky rather than helping the fire to be extinguished.
Proper maintenance and care is necessary to ensure that this fire equipment is always in good condition. This can be achieved by enlisting the help of a professional who is able to inspect the equipment thoroughly and provide necessary recommendations. This will also ensure that your fire extinguisher still has adequate pressure. As this device can sometimes end up in your wall for some time, it is essential to recharge or replace it if it is incapable to do its purpose anymore. You should also consider mounting it in extinguisher cabinets and stands where the equipment can be protected and sheltered from damage.
As this type of extinguisher is not ideal to be used for fires relating to flammable liquids and gases, it is not proper that it is positioned in the kitchen or garage. It is more suitable to be placed near the fireplace where fires originating from combustible materials can usually begin. Just make sure that it positioned in spaces that are easily accessible and can be located easily in the event of a fire breakout.
Water serves an important role in putting out fires in the past. As it is the traditional way of extinguishing fire and is very effective, the water fire extinguisher was designed to make this approach more useful, efficient and easily-handled. This fire extinguisher has now developed into reliable fire safety equipment which can be used to extinguish a small fire before it erupts into uncontrollable flames.
