How to Identify Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers
Dry Powder Extinguishers, also known as ABC Powder Extinguishers can be easily identified by the BLUE coloured section that is labelled Powder. They should also have a Fire extinguisher ID sign fitted nearby.

What types of fire are they suitable for?
These extinguishers have the benefit of being able to tackle multiple different classes of fire so are a great choice for places with multi fire risks.

Standard dry powder extinguishers can be used on the following:

  • Class A fires involving combustible solids.
  • Class B fires involving flammable liquids
  • Class C fires involving flammable gases
  • Class Electrical fires this involves electrical equipment up to 1000 volts only and should not be deployed on higher voltage fires. Instead a Carbon Dioxide extinguisher should be used on higher voltage fires.

Specialist ABC Powder Extinguishers can also be used to tackle Class D fires involving flammable metals. If you require a specialist extinguisher for this purpose please contact our customer service team.

Please note that dry powder extinguishers are not suitable for use on Class F fires involving cooking oils and fats due to the extreme temperatures involved with these fires.

How do Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers work?
These extinguishers work by cutting off the fire from oxygen by forming a literal barrier when used, as such, they can suppress fires very quickly. It is important to note though that unlike some other types of extinguisher it does not cool down the fire, which does leave a small risk of re-igniting, therefore, it is important to remain vigilant once the fire has been put out.

In the event of a fire place the extinguisher on the ground / flat surface with the nozzle facing away from you and pull the pin out breaking the anti-tamper seal. Then you will need to aim at the fire and squeeze the trigger, for different classes of fire you will need to tackle them slightly differently as listed below:

  • Class A Solid Combustibles – aim at the base of the flames and sweep across the fire.
  • Class B Flammable Liquids – aim near the edge of the fire and rapidly sweep across, this should drive the fire back towards the far edge side until it has been extinguished. If the flammable liquid is still flowing then direct the nozzle at the base of the flames and sweep upwards.
  • Class C Flammable Gases – aim directly at it. Please make sure that the gas supply has been turned off as quickly as possible.
  • Class Electrical – as with gas fires aim directly at it. Please turn off the electrical supply as quickly as possible.

Where to 'fit' Fire Extinguishers
To meet regulations fire extinguishers should be fixed in a permanent position; this is to discourage them from being moved around. There should always be one available within 30m of occupants, and it should not be obstructed by furniture etc.

As well as being fitted in place they should also be paired with their relevantID sign. The ID sign provides users with a quick and easy means of identifying the fire extinguisher as well as the types of fire it is suitable to be used on. These signs are designed to protect staff, visitors and guests by minimising risk in the case of an emergency.

In terms of placement different guidelines apply for the different varieties of fire extinguishers. Generally dry powder extinguishers should be placed within easy reach of the specific fire hazard.

Where should you use Dry Powder Extinguishers?
When discharged the powder can obscure vision, when combined with smoke and could also be inhaled if used in enclosed areas. So they are not suitable to use in small enclosed spaces such as small rooms, offices or homes. They are ideal for more open environments, especially premises with multiple fire risks.

For more information on the different types of Fire Extinguishers available follow the link to our Short Guide to Fire Extinguishers blog and take a look at our full range of Fire Extinguishers and IDs, to make sure that you have the right kind of extinguisher for your property to help keep everyone safe in the event of a fire.

If you have any questions about any of our products then please get in touch with our knowledgeable customer service team who will be happy to assist you.