Using the wrong type of fire extinguisher can make a fire worse – or even dangerous. Learn the different classes of fire and which extinguisher to use. **Class A (Ordinary Combustibles)** Materials: Wood, paper, cloth, plastic Extinguisher Type: Water, Foam, Dry Chemical (ABE) Do NOT use: None – all safe for Class A **Class B (Flammable Liquids)** Materials: Petrol, oil, paint, grease Extinguisher Type: Foam, Dry Chemical (ABE), Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Do NOT use: Water (spreads the fire) **Class C (Flammable Gases)** Materials: Natural gas, propane, butane Extinguisher Type: Dry Chemical (BE) Do NOT use: Water or CO2 **Class E (Electrical Fires)** Materials: Live electrical equipment, computers, switchboards Extinguisher Type: CO2, Dry Chemical (ABE) Do NOT use: Water, Foam **Class F (Cooking Oils & Fats)** Materials: Deep fryers, cooking oil, fat Extinguisher Type: Wet Chemical Do NOT use: Water, Foam, Dry Chemical Remember the acronym **P.A.S.S. when using an extinguisher:** – Pull the pin – Aim at the base of the fire – Squeeze the handle – Sweep side to side
