We Know: How to Buy a Fire Extinguisher

The Classes of Fire Extinguishers

The types of fire extinguishers available are broken down into classes:

  • Class A: For fires that are burning paper, wood, or cloth combustibles.
  • Class B: For fires that are burning liquids like oil, oil-based paint, or gasoline flammables.
  • Class C: For fires that are caused by electrical items like wiring, appliances, or fuse boxes.
  • Class K: For fires that are burning cooking fuels like fat or oil.

How to Gauge the Effectiveness of a Fire Extinguisher

In addition to specifying the type of fire an extinguisher is effective against, the size of the fire it can be used for is also noted along with the class. A number preceding the class represents what size fire the extinguisher can handle. For example, a 2-C is only half as effective as a 4-C. On the extinguisher's label, it might say 4-A:5-B:C. The C without the number designation means that it can fight an electrical fire because an electrical fire starts with either burning flammables or combustibles.

Rechargeable Versus Disposable Fire Extinguishers

Rechargeable fire extinguishers usually cost from two to three times more than disposable fire extinguishers, but they can be refilled by the manufacturer when they lose pressure or if they're used. The shelf life of a disposable fire extinguishers vary by model.

Fire Extinguisher Models

There are many models to choose from, depending on your needs. Here are several:

  1. First Alert Heavy-duty Fire Extinguisher: Rated 3-A:40-B:C. Sells for about $30.
  2. Northern Tool and Equipment Home Fire Extinguisher: Rated 1-A:10-B:C. Sells for about $20.
  3. First Alert Recreational Fire Extinguisher: Sells for about $18.
  4. First Alert Commercial Fire Extinguisher: Rated 4-A:60-B:C. Sells for about $82.
  5. Safety and Security Source Fire Extinguisher for Home, Car and Boat: Non-toxic and biodegradable. Sells for about $14.


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