Class A
Refers to fires caused by solid, combustible materials, such as wood, paper, fabric or plastic.

Class B
Refers to fires caused by flammable liquids, such as petrol or alcohol.

Class C
Refers to fires caused by flammable gases, such as propane or hydrogen.

Class D
Refers to fires caused by combustible metals, such as magnesium or potassium.

Electrical fires
Caused by electronic equipment, faulty wiring or short circuits, for example.

Class F
Refers to fires caused by fats, cooking oils and grease.

In the UK, fire extinguishers are identified by both their type and their colour coding. Here's a breakdown:

Types of Fire Extinguishers and Their Uses:

Water:

Used for Class A fires (solid combustible materials like wood, paper, and textiles).

Colour: Signal red.

Foam:

Used for Class A and Class B fires (flammable liquids).

Colour: Red with a cream panel.

Dry Powder:

Used for Class A, B, and C fires (flammable gases), and electrical fires.

Colour: Red with a blue panel.

Carbon Dioxide (CO2):

Used for Class B fires and electrical fires.

Colour: Red with a black panel.

Wet Chemical:

Used for Class F fires (cooking oils and fats).

Colour: Red with a yellow panel.

Water Mist:

Can be used on class A fires and, when tested, can be used on electrical fires and some class F fires.

Colour: Red with white markings.

Specialist Powder:

Used for Class D fires (flammable metals).

Colour: Red with a blue panel.

Key Colour Coding Points:

The main body of most fire extinguishers is signal red.

A coloured panel or band indicates the specific type of extinguishing agent.

It's important to remember that:

Proper placement and regular maintenance of fire extinguishers are crucial for effective fire safety.

The standard method for operating a fire extinguisher is remembered by the acronym PASS:  

P - Pull:

Pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher. This breaks the tamper seal.  

A - Aim:

Aim the nozzle or hose at the base of the fire. It's crucial to target the source of the flames.  

S - Squeeze:

Squeeze the handle to release the extinguishing agent.  

S - Sweep:

Sweep the nozzle from side to side at the base of the fire until it appears to be out.  

Here are some important additional points:

Safety First:

Always prioritize your safety. If the fire is too large or spreading rapidly, evacuate immediately.

Ensure you have a clear escape route before attempting to extinguish a fire.

Be aware of the type of fire and use the appropriate fire extinguisher.

Distance:

Maintain a safe distance from the fire.

Awareness:

Be aware that fires can reignite, so continue to observe the area after extinguishing the flames.

It's accurate that AFFF foam extinguishers are being phased out in the UK due to environmental and health concerns related to PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). Here's a summary of the situation:  

PFAS Concerns:

AFFF extinguishers contain PFAS, "forever chemicals" that persist in the environment and pose health risks.  

Phased Ban:

The UK is implementing a phased ban. By July 4, 2025, the use of AFFF extinguishers will be completely prohibited.  

Key points:

There has already been bans on certain types of AFFF, containing PFOS, and PFOA.  

businesses need to replace AFFF extinguishers with environmentally friendly alternatives.  

Proper disposal of banned extinguishers is essential.  

Therefore, while not all foam extinguishers are banned, those containing AFFF are being phased out, with a complete ban coming into effect in 2025.