When a fire starts, there's no time to read the label properly. This friendly guide walks through the five extinguisher types, the fires they're made for, and the simple PASS technique — plus the golden rule of when not to tackle a fire at all.
Why the right extinguisher matters
Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 and the Fire Services Acts 1981 & 2003employers must provide suitable fire-fighting equipment and train staff to use it. In practice that means being able to:The main extinguisher types
Each type suits different fires — the colour-coded label tells you which. Tap each to see what it tackles.
Class A
For wood, paper, textiles and other solids. Never use on electrical fires or burning liquids.
The classes of fire
Fires are grouped by what's burning. Knowing the class tells you which extinguisher is safe to use.
Class A
Wood, paper, fabric and plastics — use water or foam.
Class B
Petrol, oil, paint and spirits — use foam, CO₂ or powder, never water.
Electrical
Use CO₂ — it won't conduct or leave residue. Never use water.
Match the extinguisher to the fire — the wrong one can make it worse. Water on an electrical or oil fire is dangerous. If in doubt, get out.
How to use one: P-A-S-S
If the fire is small, contained and your exit is clear, use the PASS technique:
Pull
Pull the safety pin to break the tamper seal.
Aim
Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire, not the flames.
Squeeze
Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent.
Sweep
Sweep side to side across the base until the fire is out — then watch for re-ignition.
What the law expects
Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 and the Fire Services Acts 1981 & 2003employers must provide suitable fire-fighting equipment and train staff to use it. In practice that means being able to:
- Provide the right extinguishers for the risks present
- Service and inspect extinguishers regularly
- Train staff to use them and when not to
- Keep clear access and signage to all units