A Guide to Fire Extinguishers for Domestic Use
A Guide to Fire Extinguishers for Domestic Use
WARNING: If a fire has already taken hold in a room and is filling the space with smoke or fumes, do not attempt to extinguish it. Leave immediately, close doors behind you, alert others, evacuate to safety, and call 999.
Powder extinguishers were once considered a universal solution, but they are now discouraged for indoor use. When discharged, they release a cloud of fine powder which impairs vision and can cause breathing difficulties. As such, they are not recommended for use inside homes.
Kitchen
Kitchens present a high risk due to the variety of fire classes present:
- Class A: Combustible solids like paper or wood
- Class B: Flammable liquids such as oil
- Class C: Flammable gases from gas cookers/hobs
- Class F: Cooking oils and fats
A water mist fire extinguisher is suitable for most kitchen fire risks and is safe for use on live electrical equipment. These extinguishers leave no residue and contain only de-ionised water.
For homes using deep fat fryers frequently, a 2-litre wet chemical extinguisher is also an option, although it is more expensive and less versatile.
*Note: Water mist should not be used on anything above a 5F-rated fire (approx. domestic deep fat fryer size).
Home Office
Fire risks include:
- Combustible materials (Class A)
- Electrical equipment (e.g. computers)
Water mist extinguishers are ideal here due to their versatility and low clean-up.
Lithium-ion battery caution: If a battery overheats, cool with water or move it outdoors if safe. Do not leave devices charging unattended for long periods.
Living Room
Fire hazards here include soft furnishings, curtains, fireplaces, and electronics. Use:
- Water mist extinguishers (3 or 6 litre): Suitable for gas and solid fuel fires
- Foam or water extinguishers: Also suitable if there’s no gas fire
Garage / Workshop / Shed
Powder extinguishers remain the best option for these spaces. They are effective on:
- Class A (solids)
- Class B (liquids like petrol)
- Class C (flammable gases)
- Electrical fires
Be aware of visibility and clean-up issues after discharge. For stored flammable liquids, consider foam or powder extinguishers.
Car / Caravan / Motorhome
For engine compartments: use a powder extinguisher. If smoke is present, carefully lift the bonnet and spray without fully opening it.
For living spaces: use a water mist extinguisher. It’s wise to have one in both the pulling vehicle and the living compartment.
Fire Blankets
Fire blankets are especially useful in kitchens for pan fires. They are also suitable for:
- Wrapping around individuals whose clothing is on fire
- Waste bin fires
After use on oil or fat fires, turn off the heat source and leave the blanket in place until completely cool. Removing it too early may cause reignition.
Always purchase blankets with a CE mark and Kitemark (or EN 1869 certification). Low-quality products can be ineffective or dangerous.