Fire extinguishers are essential to maintaining fire safety and can be lifesaving in emergencies.

Having one nearby ensures that small fires can be quickly contained before they spread, whether at home, in the workplace, or public spaces. 

Each type is designed to fight different kinds of fires, and using the wrong one could worsen the situation.

In Canada, fire extinguishers are color-coded to help users quickly identify the right one for a particular fire. 

The colors on fire extinguishers' labels indicate their contents and the types of fires they are most effective against (e.g., fires caused by electrical equipment, flammable liquids, or ordinary combustibles like wood or paper). 

This color-coding system is critical to fire safety, allowing individuals to respond appropriately during a fire emergency.

Fire-related incidents are a serious concern in Canada. In 2021 alone, there were over 39,047 structural fires nationwide, highlighting the importance of fire preparedness and safety measures. 

Understanding fire extinguisher colors and their uses is an easy but necessary step in protecting yourself, your family, or your workplace from fire hazards.

This blog will explore the different fire extinguisher colors, their types, and their specific uses to help ensure you're prepared for a fire emergency.

The Colour Coding System for Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are marked with specific colors that identify the type of fire they are designed to fight. 

This color-coding system is essential in fire safety, as it helps people quickly identify the correct extinguisher in an emergency. 

Knowing which fire extinguisher to use can make all the difference in effectively putting out a fire without causing further harm.

The primary colors for fire extinguishers are red, blue, cream, black, and yellow, each corresponding to a different type of fire.

For example, a red extinguisher (water-based) is suitable for ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and cloth. A blue extinguisher (dry powder) is used for electrical fires or flammable gases. 

The black extinguisher (CO2) is ideal for electrical fires and flammable liquids, and the cream extinguisher (foam) works on both flammable liquids and ordinary combustibles.

Finally, the yellow extinguisher (wet chemical) is designed specifically for cooking oils and fats, making it crucial in kitchen environments.

Recognizing the colors and understanding what types of fires each extinguisher can handle is essential. 

Using the wrong extinguisher can be ineffective and may even worsen the situation. For instance, using a water extinguisher on an electrical fire could cause electrocution or spread the fire further.

By comprehending the color-coding system, you can respond more confidently and efficiently in the event of a fire, potentially preventing severe damage or injury. 

Fire Extinguisher Colours and Their Meanings

Fire extinguishers come in various colors, each representing a different type of extinguisher designed to combat specific types of fires. 

Color coding helps users quickly identify the suitable extinguisher during an emergency, a critical aspect of fire safety in homes, businesses, and workplaces. 

Misusing a fire extinguisher can have dangerous consequences, as not all extinguishers suit every type of fire. That's why understanding these colors and their meanings is essential.

Red - Water Extinguishers

(Suitable for Class A Fires: Solid Combustibles)

Red fire extinguishers are the most common type, often found in schools, offices, and public buildings. 

Since these materials are widely present in various environments, water extinguishers are considered a staple of fire safety.

How It Works

The red water extinguisher cools the flames and removes the heating element from the fire triangle (heat, fuel, and oxygen). 

Water is highly effective in extinguishing Class A fires because it absorbs heat, lowering the temperature of the burning material below its ignition point.

Precautions and Limitations

While water extinguishers are excellent for solid combustibles, they should never be used on fires involving electricity, flammable liquids, or cooking oils. 

Water conducts electricity, so using it on an electrical fire could cause severe electric shock to the person handling the extinguisher. 

Similarly, using water on flammable liquids or kitchen fires could worsen the situation by spreading the flames.

Water extinguishers also come with limitations regarding outdoor use. In freezing Canadian temperatures, the water inside the extinguisher could freeze, making it useless. 

For this reason, alternative extinguishers, such as dry powder or foam, are often recommended in outdoor environments or cold climates like Canada's northern regions.

Where They Should Be Used

Given their effectiveness for ordinary combustibles, red water extinguishers should be strategically placed in areas where Class A fires are most likely to occur—offices, libraries, and warehouses with high volumes of paper or wooden materials. 

However, ensuring that the fire risk in these areas does not involve electrical equipment is crucial, as this would require different types of extinguishers.

Cream - Foam Extinguishers

(Suitable for Class A and B Fires: Solid Combustibles and Flammable Liquids)

Cream-colored foam extinguishers are fire-fighting tools for Class A (solid combustibles) and Class B (flammable liquids) fires. 

They are preferred in environments with both hazards, such as offices, warehouses, and industrial settings.

How It Works

Foam extinguishers contain an aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) that works in two primary ways. 

For Class A fires (solid combustibles like paper, wood, and textiles), the foam cools the fire by removing the heat, similar to how water extinguishers function. 

However, foam extinguishers go further by creating a barrier over the burning material, preventing re-ignition.

Foam extinguishers are particularly effective for Class B fires (flammable liquids such as gasoline, oils, and solvents). The foam forms a blanket over the surface of the burning liquid, cutting off the fire's oxygen supply and smothering the flames. 

This also prevents the release of flammable vapors, further reducing the risk of the fire spreading or reigniting.

Effectiveness and Limitations

Foam extinguishers are highly effective in various settings, mainly where flammable liquids are a primary hazard. 

Their ability to control Class A and B fires makes them more versatile than water extinguishers. They're commonly found in garages, workshops, and petrol stations where the risk of a liquid fire is higher.

However, foam extinguishers are not suitable for electrical fires. While they may be safe to use around low-voltage equipment, they should never be used on live electrical systems due to the risk of electric shock. 

Additionally, foam extinguishers are less effective against Class C fires (flammable gases) and Class F fires (cooking oils and fats).

Another limitation is that foam extinguishers can leave residue behind, which might cause minor damage to delicate materials or electronics. Therefore, foam extinguishers should be used cautiously.

Blue - Dry Powder Extinguishers

(Suitable for Class A, B, and C Fires: Solid Combustibles, Flammable Liquids, and Gases)

Blue-labeled dry powder extinguishers can handle a wide range of fire extinguisher classes, including Class A (solid combustibles), Class B (flammable liquids), and Class C (flammable gases), making them a popular choice for environments with diverse fire risks, such as workshops, garages, and industrial facilities.

How It Works

Dry powder extinguishers work by discharging a fine powder that blankets the fire, cutting off the oxygen supply and smothering the flames. 

For Class A fires (solid materials like paper and wood), the powder suppresses the flames similarly to water or foam extinguishers without the cooling effect. 

For Class B fires (flammable liquids like oils and gasoline) and Class C fires (gases like propane or methane), the powder interrupts the chemical reaction at the fire's core, stopping it from spreading further.

Advantages and Disadvantages

One of the primary advantages of dry powder extinguishers is their effectiveness across various fire types. 

This makes them suitable for locations like manufacturing plants, construction sites, and gas storage facilities, where the risk of flammable liquids or gases catching fire is significant.

Additionally, unlike water or foam extinguishers, dry powder extinguishers can be used safely on electrical fires up to 1000 volts, offering the versatility that foam and water extinguishers lack.

However, there are notable disadvantages. 

First, dry powder extinguishers are unsuitable for Class F fires (cooking oils and fats). They could be more effective in environments with delicate equipment. 

The powder can be highly corrosive and leave a residue that is difficult to clean up, potentially causing damage to machinery or electronics. 

Additionally, in confined spaces, the fine powder can reduce visibility and pose respiratory hazards to individuals in the area.

Black - Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Extinguishers

(Suitable for Class B and C Fires: Flammable Liquids and Electrical Fires)

Yellow-labeled wet chemical extinguishers are designed for Class F fires involving cooking oils and fats. 

These extinguishers are a critical safety tool in commercial kitchens, restaurants, and other food preparation areas where the risk of grease fires is high.

How It Works

Wet chemical extinguishers contain a specially formulated chemical agent that cools and emulsifies burning oils and fats. 

When discharged, the liquid creates a soapy layer over the surface of the burning oil, cutting off the fire's oxygen supply and stopping the flames. 

The chemical's cooling effect also helps to lower the oil's temperature, preventing re-ignition.

Wet chemical extinguishers are specifically formulated for Class F fires, which involve high-temperature cooking oils commonly found in deep fryers. 

These fires are particularly dangerous because oil can reach extremely high temperatures before igniting, making it challenging to extinguish with traditional fire-fighting methods.

Specific Applications and Safety Tips

Wet chemical extinguishers are designed for kitchen safety and are essential for any environment that uses commercial cooking equipment. 

In Canada, commercial kitchens are required to have these extinguishers readily available due to the increased risk of grease fires. 

Wet chemical extinguishers rapidly suppress the flames, preventing them from spreading to other areas.

One of the main benefits of wet chemical extinguishers is their cooling effect, which not only puts out the fire but also reduces the temperature of the hot oil to a safer level. 

This prevents the fire from reigniting, a common issue with other fire-fighting agents when dealing with grease fires.

However, wet chemical extinguishers are unsuitable for Class A, B, or C fires, meaning they should not be used on flammable liquids, gases, or solid combustibles. 

While wet chemical extinguishers are essential in commercial kitchens, the CO2 extinguisher ideal environment includes areas with electrical equipment or flammable liquid fires, as it effectively smothers flames without leaving residue.

It's also essential to ensure that these extinguishers are used properly, as improper technique can cause the burning oil to splatter, spreading the fire further. 

Why Is Colour Coding Necessary?

Color coding for fire extinguishers is critical in ensuring the correct extinguisher is used during an emergency. It ultimately prevents misuse that could worsen a fire or cause additional hazards. 

Rapid response is essential in fire emergencies, and color coding helps firefighters, employees, and other responders quickly and accurately identify the correct extinguisher for the type of fire they are dealing with.

Using the wrong type of extinguisher can not only be ineffective but can also be dangerous. 

For example, using a water-based extinguisher (red) on an electrical fire could lead to electrocution, while using it on a grease fire (Class F) could spread the flames further. 

The color coding system ensures that anyone handling a fire extinguisher in a high-stress situation can quickly select the appropriate tool for the fire type. This reduces the risk of accidents and minimizes damage.

Additionally, color coding is an essential part of effective fire safety training. 

Employees and occupants of a building can be trained to recognize fire extinguisher colors and their appropriate uses, helping them respond more confidently and efficiently. 

Placing extinguishers strategically around facilities ensures that the right type of extinguisher is available in areas where specific fire risks exist, such as having CO2 extinguishers in server rooms and wet chemical extinguishers in kitchens.

Color coding is a necessary safety measure to facilitate quick identification and effective fire response. 

It prevents potentially dangerous situations from escalating and promotes safety and efficiency, especially during high-pressure emergencies.

Regulatory Standards for Fire Extinguisher Colours

In Canada, fire extinguisher colors are subject to strict regulatory standards to ensure consistency and safety across all workplaces and public environments. 

Regulatory bodies such as the Canadian Fire Safety Association (CFSA) and the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (CCOHS) provide guidelines that outline the appropriate color coding for different extinguishers, ensuring compliance with safety laws.

These regulatory standards help standardize fire extinguisher identification across the country, so the same rules apply whether you're in a commercial building, industrial site, or public space.

This consistency ensures that anyone trained in fire safety knows what to expect when encountering a fire extinguisher in different settings. 

For example, as Canadian regulations prescribe, red extinguishers are used for water, blue for dry powder, and yellow for wet chemicals.

Compliance with these regulations is essential for workplace safety. Organizations that fail to follow these standards risk putting their employees in danger during fire emergencies.

Regulatory compliance is also necessary for insurance purposes and to meet provincial or municipal fire codes. 

Businesses must regularly inspect and maintain their fire extinguishers to ensure they meet regulatory standards and are in proper working condition.

Adherence to these guidelines contributes to public safety. Buildings accessible to the public, such as schools, malls, and hospitals, must comply with fire safety regulations, including the proper use and color coding of extinguishers. 

This ensures that employees and the public can safely and confidently respond during a fire.

Regulatory standards governing fire extinguisher colors in Canada are necessary to ensure that extinguishers are used effectively and safely during emergencies. 

Compliance with these standards helps prevent accidents, improve fire safety outcomes, and ensure public trust in fire prevention measures.

Common Misconceptions About Fire Extinguisher Colours

Several misconceptions surround the color coding of fire extinguishers, which can lead to confusion during emergencies. 

Many people mistakenly believe that all extinguishers can be used on any type of fire or that the color of the extinguisher reflects its overall effectiveness. 

Addressing these misunderstandings is crucial for ensuring individuals respond correctly in fire situations, reducing the risk of injury or damage.

One of the most common myths is that all fire extinguishers can be used interchangeably. 

Each fire extinguisher is designed for specific fire classes, such as Class A (solid materials like wood and paper) or Class B (flammable liquids like gasoline). 

Proper training is required to understand which extinguisher type to use based on the color code and the type of fire.

Another common misconception is that the color of the extinguisher indicates its power or size.

Some mistakenly assume darker colors like black (CO2) or blue (dry powder) represent a more powerful or versatile extinguisher. However, the colors are simply visual cues that indicate the type of extinguishing agent inside and the fire classes it can combat. 

For instance, CO2 (black) extinguishers are ideal for electrical and liquid fires. At the same time, dry powder (blue) can be used on a wider range of fire types, including electrical, but is only sometimes the most effective option for solid materials.

These misconceptions highlight the importance of proper fire extinguisher training, which ensures that individuals can accurately match extinguisher colors with their intended uses. 

With the right training, employees and the general public can learn to differentiate between fire classes, identify the correct extinguisher based on color, and use it effectively to control small fires before they escalate.

Enrolling in our fire extinguisher training program, offered by Canada Safety Training Centre, can help individuals understand fire classes, extinguishers, and the proper techniques to ensure safety in an emergency. 

This training course focuses on clearing these misconceptions and helping participants to respond confidently and efficiently in fire scenarios.

Addressing these common myths through training and education is key to improving workplace and public safety.

What Are The Different Classes Of Fire?

Fires are classified into different categories to help identify the best methods and tools for extinguishing them. 

Understanding these classes is crucial for effective fire safety and response because using the wrong extinguisher can be ineffective or dangerous. 

Each fire class represents a type of material that fuels the fire, and knowing these distinctions ensures that first responders, employees, and the public can act appropriately in an emergency.

Fire safety training emphasizes the importance of recognizing fire classes so individuals can respond quickly and confidently with the right equipment, such as fire extinguishers for specific fire types. 

Proper knowledge of fire classes can be lifesaving in workplaces, homes, and public spaces.

List and Define Each Class

Class A Fires

These fires involve combustible materials like wood, paper, cloth, and plastics.

• Examples: A fire in a pile of paper, a burning furniture, or a campfire.

Class B Fires

Class B fires are fueled by flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil, and paints.

• Examples: A gasoline fire at a gas station, oil catching fire in a mechanic's garage, or a grease fire from spilled oil.

Class C Fires

These fires involve energized electrical equipment, such as appliances, wiring, or circuit breakers.

• Examples: A fire in a computer or server room, electrical panels catching fire, or faulty wiring in a home causing a fire.

Class D Fires

Class D fires involve flammable metals like magnesium, titanium, and sodium.

• Examples: Industrial accidents where metal shavings catch fire or burning metals during welding or cutting processes.

Class K Fires

These are fires involving cooking oils and fats, typically in commercial kitchens.

• Example: A deep fryer fire in a restaurant kitchen or a fire caused by hot cooking oil igniting.

Each fire class demands a specific type of fire extinguisher and response. For example, water should never be used on Class B or Class C fires, as it can cause the fire to spread or lead to electrocution.

FAQs

What are the 5 types of fire extinguishers and their uses?

The five types of fire extinguishers are listed as follows: 

1. Water (red) for Class A fires (wood, paper) 
2. Foam (cream) for Class A and B fires (flammable liquids)
3. Dry Powder (blue) for Class A, B, and C fires (solids, liquids, gases)
4. CO2 (black) for Class B and electrical fires
5. Wet Chemical (yellow) for Class F fires (cooking oils)

What is a Class ABC fire extinguisher used for?

A Class ABC fire extinguisher is versatile and suitable for various emergency situations. It is used for Class A (solid materials like wood), Class B (flammable liquids), and Class C (flammable gases) fires.

What is a yellow fire extinguisher used for?

A yellow fire extinguisher is a wet chemical used primarily for Class F fires, such as those involving cooking oils and fats, often found in commercial kitchens.

What is a black fire extinguisher used for?

A black fire extinguisher contains CO2 and is used for Class B fires (flammable liquids) and electrical fires. It effectively cuts off the oxygen supply without damaging electrical equipment.

Why can't fire extinguishers be put on the floor?

Fire extinguishers should not be placed on the floor because they may be damaged or knocked over, causing malfunctions. 

Proper wall mounts ensure they remain visible, accessible, and in good working condition.

Conclusion

Understanding fire extinguisher color coding is essential for ensuring safety and preparedness in fire emergencies. 

Each color corresponds to a specific type of fire extinguisher designed to tackle different classes of fires. 

Whether it's a red water extinguisher for Class A fires or a yellow wet chemical extinguisher for Class F fires, knowing the correct extinguisher can prevent further damage and save lives.

Misusing a fire extinguisher without recognizing its intended purpose can lead to accidents, increased hazards, or ineffective fire suppression. 

This is why proper training and awareness about fire classes and extinguisher colors are essential in workplaces, homes, and public spaces.

Fire safety should always be a top priority, and identifying these crucial distinctions ensures you are prepared to respond quickly and effectively in an emergency.

By familiarizing yourself with the color coding system, you help protect yourself and others, making fire safety a more manageable task.