How to Identify Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers
Wet Chemical Extinguishers, can be easily identified by the YELLOW coloured section that is labelled Wet Chemical. They should also have a Fire extinguisher ID sign fitted nearby.

What types of fire are they suitable for?
Wet Chemical extinguishers can be used on the following:

  • Class A fires involving some combustible solids.

  • Class F fires involving cooking oils and fats. Wet Chemical extinguishers have been specifically designed for this type of fire and are extremely effective.

Please note that Wet chemical extinguishers are not suitable for use on Class B ( Flammable Liquids) Class C (flammable gases), Class D (flammable metals) or Class Electrical (Electrical Equipment).

How do Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers work?
Upon contact with the burning fats/oils wet chemical extinguishers expand to form a blanket over the top. This smothers the area, and much like a foam extinguisher, blocks the access to oxygen and helps to prevent re-ignition by cooling the flames.

The temperatures involved in fires with cooking fats and oils are extremely high and you should remain vigilant to ensure that re-ignition does not take place.

The extinguishing agent is deployed at low pressure, to help minimise the risk of causing splashes and spreading the fire further. A hose is provided so that the user can stand back at a safer distance from the flames.

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 they should not be obstructed, for example by pieces of furniture.

As well as being fitted in place they should also be paired with their relevant ID 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.

Where should you use Wet Chemical Extinguishers?
If your premises has a high fire risk from cooking fats and oils then wet chemical extinguishers are recommended. They are ideal to be placed in commercial & industrial kitchens, and garages, where the risk of this type of fire is high.

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.