Fire Extinguishers: Which Type Do You Need?

ABC, CO2, foam or clean agent? A simple guide to choosing the right fire extinguisher for your home, office or society.

Not all fires are the same

Fires from paper and wood, fuel and oil, or electrical equipment behave differently. Using the wrong extinguisher can be ineffective — or even dangerous.

A quick guide

• ABC dry powder — the best all-round choice for homes, offices, shops and vehicles.
• CO2 — for electrical panels, meter rooms and lift machine rooms; leaves no residue.
• Water / foam — for wood, paper, fabric and fuel areas.
• Clean agent — for server rooms and sensitive electronics.

Keep them ready

Mount extinguishers at visible, easy-to-reach places, check the pressure gauge every month and get them refilled as per the due date on the service tag.