Water Fire Extinguishers

Water Fire Extinguishers

The water fire extinguisher is an excellent solution if you run the risk of Class A fires involving paper, rubbish, wood, cloth or other carbon-based materials. H2O is also one of the oldest extinguishants around that is still used to this day.

It is common to pair up water with carbon dioxide extinguishers for indoor use. That covers your Class A, B and E type fires and doesn’t leave as much of a mess compared to a dry powder.

How to Identify A Water Fire Extinguisher?

Water Fire Extinguishers are a full red cylinder with no band. They will also have the words water fire extinguisher printed on the front label. The cylinder is also made from stainless steel to prevent internal rusting.

Where To Use A Water Fire Extinguisher

H2O extinguishers are suitable for use on class A fires such as:

• Paper
• Wood
• Cloth

How Does A Water Fire Extinguisher Work?

Water reduces the temperature of the fire and is propelled by nitrogen gas.

When directed at flames, it lowers the general temperature, making it tough for the fire to burn and the flame to reignite.

If the water contains chemicals or has other impurities in it, the extinguisher may not operate as designed.

Water Extinguisher Sizes

9.0ltr – Water fire extinguisher.

Advantages Of Water Extinguishers

Water is inexpensive and readily available.
Zero impact on the environment.
It is an effective extinguishant on Class A fires.

Disadvantages Of Water Extinguishers

Water fire extinguishers are only suited for one Class of fire.
Do not use it on electrical fires due to shock hazards.
Using water fire extinguishers for fat and also flammable liquids will aggravate the fire.

Fire Extinguisher Testing Frequency

Fire extinguisher checks must happen every 12 months by a professional, per NZS 4503:2005. Extinguishers need to be inspected at least once every six months in environments deemed’ hostile’. A hostile environment could mean that your work type has more associated fire hazards than usual. Every Five years, fire extinguishers require a hydrostatic pressure test to make sure your device is operating effectively and recharged when an extinguisher is discharged.

How To Use A Water Fire Extinguisher

Like all other fire extinguishers, you need to remember the PASS-word.

Pull the Pin
Aim at the base of the fire.
Squeeze the handle.
Sweep from side to side.