Water

One of the most traditional fire extinguishers on the market, Water fire extinguishers are suitable for business and private use. They are recommended for use on class A fires.

Contrary to what many people believe, water fire extinguishers cannot be used for many different types of fires. In fact, it can often make circumstances more dangerous.

For this reason, you must know how and when to use your water fire extinguisher.

What Colour Band Does A Water Fire Extinguisher Have?

Water fire extinguishers come in an all-red cylinder with no coloured band.

When To Use A Water Fire Extinguisher?

All water fire extinguishers are intended to fight class A fires which are fires involving flammable, carbon-based solids such as wood, paper, and textiles.

They are most commonly used within environments such as warehouses, textile plants, storehouse facilities and office spaces.

It is also useful to use a water fire extinguisher within a residential setting such as wood sheds and workshops.

Water fire extinguishers should not be used on Class E, electrical fires. Water is a great conductor of electricity, and as such it could cause severe damage to the user if water is used. For this reason, it is recommended to pair your water extinguisher with a CO2 fire extinguisher which is highly effective on electrical appliances.

How Does Water Work?

The three key elements that fire requires to thrive are heat, fuel and oxygen. All fire extinguishers work by eliminating one or more of these three key components.

By eliminating the heat from the fire, this takes out one of the three key elements and extinguishes the fire. As the embers will continue to be hot, it is important to maintain the flow of water until the area is adequately cooled.

Advantages Of Water Fire Extinguishers

• Water extinguishers are a cost-effective option, as they are cheap to buy and refill.
• A fast reduction of flames due to the cooling effect from the water extinguisher.
• Environmentally friendly and safe for the user as the extinguisher contains only water and nitrogen.
• Minimal to no clean up needed after use.
• Easy and straightforward to use.

Downside Of Water Fire Extinguishers

• Restricted use as it is only recommended for Class A fires (paper, wood, and textile materials).
• Cannot be used on electrical fires.
• Potential chance of freezing. As it uses plain water, it can freeze in low-temperature environments.
• Can not be used in the kitchen or on fires involving fats and cooking oils