There are five main types of fire extinguishers; water, foam, dry power, carbon dioxide and wet chemicals, and each contains different substances to deal with different types of fires.  

There is no single type of fire extinguisher that can deal with all types of fire. 

Fire Extinguisher Types and When to Use Them

Wood, paper, plastics and soft furnishings fires  
  • Water Extinguishers 
  • Foam Extinguishers  
  • Dry Powder Extinguishers  
  • Wet Chemical Extinguishers 
 Electrical apparatus, computers, phone chargers etc. 
  • Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers 
  • Dry Powder Extinguishers  
 Cooking oils and fats  
  • Wet Chemical Extinguishers 
 Flammable liquids, petrol, oil etc. 
  • Foam Extinguishers  
  • Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers 
  • Dry Powder Extinguishers  
 Flammable gases, propane and methane etc  
  • Dry Powder Extinguishers  

Important Things to Know When Using a Fire Extinguisher

Chip pan fires: Never use a fire extinguisher on cooking oil or chip pan fires, as it can spread the flames. Instead, cover the pan with a fire blanket (or a damp cloth if safe to do so) to smother the fire. 

CO₂ extinguishers: You should only use these in well-ventilated spaces. The gas can reduce oxygen levels and be dangerous in confined areas. Ventilate the area after use. 

Dry powder extinguishers: Don’t use them in enclosed spaces as the powder can make it hard to breathe and limit visibility when trying to evacuate. 

Never hold the horn while using the extinguisher. It can get extremely cold and may burn or freeze your skin. 

Fire Extinguishers - Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is an ABC fire extinguisher?

An ABC fire extinguisher is a multi-purpose dry powder extinguisher. It is effective against: 

  • Class A fires: solids like wood, paper, and textiles 
  • Class B fires: flammable liquids like petrol or paint 
  • Class C fires: flammable gases like propane or butane 
Which fire extinguisher do I need?

It depends on the risks: 

  • Home or office: Water, foam or CO₂ 
  • Kitchen: Wet chemical 
  • Garage or workshop: Dry powder or CO₂ 

 For business premises, a fire risk assessment will determine the required types. Learn more about fire regulations for businesses. 

Are fire extinguishers safe to use by untrained people?

Always call 999 first if there’s any danger — use a fire extinguisher only if it’s safe to do so. 

How long do fire extinguishers last?
  • 5 years for most extinguishers 
  • 10 years for CO₂ units 

 Always check the manufacturer’s label  

How To dispose of an old fire extinguisher?

Do not throw it in general waste. Fire extinguishers need to be disposed of carefully as they contain hazardous substances. Find your local hazardous waste disposal service.  

Other Fire Safety Equipment for Your Home

Fire blankets 

Fire blankets are designed to put out small fires by smothering them. They’re good for extinguishing chip pan fires or to wrap around someone whose clothing is on fire.  

If you choose to buy a fire blanket, make sure to follow this safety advice: 

  • Keep it in the kitchen. More than half of the fires we attend start in the kitchen. 
  • Only use it on a small fire. 
  • Use it to put out fires on clothing by wrapping the blanket around the person on fire. 
  • Always look for the British Standard mark  
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Smoke Alarms  

Read our smoke alarms guidance to find out about installing smoke alarms in your home. 

Carbon monoxide alarms

Read our carbon monoxide information to find out about carbon monoxide alarms. 

Sign up to receive our latest information to your email

Employer Recognition Scheme - Silver Award Banner