Fire Extinguisher Colours Explained

Fire extinguishers are an essential part of the fire safety measures for any building. Upon first glance, most fire extinguishers may look similar in appearance. However, on closer examination, it is apparent that all extinguishers are colour-coded, with each colour representing the active ingredient used as an extinguishant. Each extinguisher is designed for use on a specific class of fire and using the wrong one in an emergency could have disastrous consequences.

With this in mind, the team at Fire Safety Equipment has written this article explaining the colour-coding system to ensure you carry the correct extinguisher for the threats in your property or on your premises. 

Red

Red fire extinguishers distribute water and are the most commonly used extinguisher, found in numerous commercial premises across the country. Water fire extinguishers are designed for use on Class A fires; these are fires fuelled by combustible materials. Red extinguishers are equipped with a spray nozzle, allowing them to tackle a much larger surface area of the fire. The water that is dispersed dampens the fuel of the fire, causing it to burn out.

Cream

Foam fire extinguishers are denoted by a cream colour; these are most commonly used on fires fuelled by flammable liquids, known as Class B fires. Consequently, these extinguishers can often be found in garages and on petrol forecourts. As the foam is water-based, they can also be used on Class A fires. The foam floats on top of the burning liquid which suppresses the oxygen and smothers the flame.

Blue

Blue fire extinguishers contain dry powder and can be used on most types of fire – the only exception being Class F fires. Despite the versatility of blue extinguishers, they should ideally only be used outdoors, since the powder they disperse is easy to inhale in enclosed spaces. These extinguishers work by forming a thick barrier over the flame, which starves it of oxygen. Dry powder extinguishers can also be used on fires caused by flammable metals, known as Class D fires. However, a specialist dry powder extinguisher marked L2 or M28 must be used; these contain graphite, copper and sodium-chloride-based powders to tackle the extreme temperatures.

Black

A black band indicates that the device is a CO2 extinguisher; these are mainly for use on Class B fires but are also suitable for electrical fires. Consequently, black extinguishers are often found in server rooms or locations where there is a large number of electrical devices. They are easily identifiable due to their hard horn and lack of a pressure gauge. These extinguishers expel liquid carbon dioxide, which neutralises the oxygen of the fire. The liquid carbon dioxide is extremely cold, so it’s vital that the operator uses the hard horn to prevent frost burn. This extinguisher can also cause asphyxiation if used in enclosed spaces due to the displacement of oxygen, so it should be used with the utmost caution.

Yellow

Wet chemical extinguishers are identified by the colour yellow; these devices are specifically designed for Class F fires, fuelled by cooking oil. As such, yellow extinguishers are mainly located in commercial kitchens. They work by discharging a potassium mist which forms a soapy foam layer on top of the burning liquid, starving the mixture beneath of oxygen.

At Fire Safety Equipment, we supply a comprehensive range of extinguishers suitable for every class of fire. We source only the best quality equipment from reputable manufacturers; you can be sure that when you shop with us, you’re receiving goods that adhere to strict safety guidelines. As a leading online stockist of fire safety equipment, we offer an affordable and fast delivery service that operates nationwide.

To order from our extensive range of fire extinguishers or to discuss your requirements with an expert, contact us today.