Understanding how to handle fires involving flammable liquids is crucial for ensuring personal safety and protecting property from potential devastation. 

Flammable liquids, such as gasoline, oils, and solvents, pose unique fire hazards due to their ability to ignite easily and spread rapidly. 

In such situations, using the correct type of fire extinguisher becomes paramount to swiftly and effectively extinguishing the flames without exacerbating the risk.

By understanding the specific hazards associated with flammable liquids and knowing how to respond effectively with the right equipment, individuals can significantly reduce the potential for injury, property damage, and environmental impact caused by such fires. 

This article explores the different types of fire extinguishers suitable for flammable liquid fires and provides guidance on their proper use to enhance fire safety practices in various settings.

What Different Types of Fire Extinguishers are there?

Fire extinguishers are categorised into several types, each designed to combat specific classes of fire. 

Choosing the right type of fire extinguisher depends on the specific fire hazards present in a given environment.

Understanding these types is crucial for effective fire response and safety:

Water

These are designed for Class A fires, which involve solid materials such as wood, paper, and textiles. 

Water extinguishers work by cooling the fire and reducing its heat until it is extinguished. 

They are not suitable for use on flammable liquids or electrical fires due to the risk of spreading the fire or electrical shock.

Foam

Foam extinguishers are effective against Class A and B fires. 

They work by creating a barrier between the fuel and the air or by cooling and smothering the fire. 

Foam extinguishers are versatile and commonly used in environments where both solid materials and flammable liquids are present.

Dry Powder

These extinguishers are suitable for Class A, B, and C fires. 

They work by smothering the fire and interrupting the chemical reaction necessary for combustion. 

Dry powder extinguishers are effective for extinguishing fires involving flammable gases and are also safe for use on electrical fires.

CO2

CO2 extinguishers are designed for Class B and electrical fires. 

They work by displacing oxygen around the fire, suffocating it and leaving no residue. 

CO2 extinguishers are ideal for use on fires involving flammable liquids such as oil and petrol, as well as electrical fires.

Wet Chemical

These are specifically designed for Class F fires, which involve cooking oils and fats. 

Wet chemical extinguishers create a blanket that cools the burning oil and prevents reignition. 

They are effective in commercial kitchens and other environments where cooking oils are used and grease fires can happen.

What Class of Fire are Flammable Liquids?

Flammable liquids are classified as Class B fires according to fire safety standards. 

This classification encompasses fires fueled by flammable gases, liquids, greases, and similar substances. 

Class B fires are characterised by their ability to ignite easily and burn rapidly, often with intense flames.

Common examples of flammable liquids include gasoline, diesel fuel, kerosene, alcohol, acetone, and various industrial solvents. 

These liquids typically have low flash points, meaning they can vaporise quickly at relatively low temperatures and ignite easily when exposed to an ignition source.

Fires involving flammable liquids pose unique challenges due to the volatility of the fuel involved. 

They can spread rapidly and may produce intense heat and flames, making them potentially dangerous and difficult to extinguish if not addressed promptly and effectively.

Which Fire Extinguisher Should Be Used for Flammable Liquids?

When dealing with flammable liquids, choosing the right fire extinguisher is crucial to effectively and safely extinguish fires of this type. 

Here are the recommended fire extinguishers for flammable liquids:

Foam Fire Extinguisher

Foam extinguishers are suitable for Class B fires, which involve flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil, and paint. 

They work by forming a blanket of foam over the liquid surface, cutting off the fire’s oxygen supply and cooling the fuel below its ignition point. 

Foam extinguishers are effective for both indoor and outdoor use and are particularly useful where flammable liquids may spill or pool.

Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher

Dry powder extinguishers are versatile and can be used on Class B fires.

They work by smothering the fire and interrupting the chemical reaction necessary for combustion. 

Dry powder extinguishers are effective for quickly extinguishing fires involving flammable liquids like petrol, diesel, and solvents. 

However, they can create a cloud that reduces visibility and may cause respiratory irritation, so they should be used in well-ventilated areas.

CO2 Fire Extinguisher

CO2 extinguishers are suitable for Class B fires involving flammable liquids. 

They work by displacing oxygen and reducing the heat of the fire. CO2 extinguishers are ideal for use in confined spaces or areas with sensitive equipment because they do not leave a residue that can damage electronics or other materials. 

However, they should be used with caution in enclosed spaces to avoid the risk of suffocation due to the displacement of breathable air.

How do you Extinguish a Flammable Liquid Fire?

Extinguishing a flammable liquid fire requires careful consideration and the right approach to prevent the fire from spreading or reigniting. 

Here are the steps to effectively extinguish a flammable liquid fire:

Assess the Situation

Before attempting to extinguish the fire, assess the size and nature of the fire. 

If the fire is small and contained, you may attempt to extinguish it using a fire extinguisher. 

For larger fires or those involving significant quantities of flammable liquids, evacuate the area immediately and call emergency services.

Select the Correct Extinguisher

Choose the appropriate fire extinguisher based on the type of flammable liquid involved. Foam, dry powder, and CO2 extinguishers are suitable for flammable liquid fires.

Approach the Fire

Approach the fire from a safe distance to avoid exposure to heat and flames. 

Aim the nozzle of the fire extinguisher at the base of the flames where the liquid fuel is burning.

Use the PASS Method

Follow the PASS method to operate the fire extinguisher effectively:

• Pull: Pull the pin to unlock the extinguisher.

• Aim: Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire.

• Squeeze: Squeeze the handle to discharge the extinguishing agent.

• Sweep: Sweep the nozzle from side to side, covering the base of the fire with the extinguishing agent.

Discharge the Extinguisher

Maintain a steady discharge of the extinguishing agent until the fire is fully extinguished. 

Continue to apply the agent to prevent re-ignition.

Monitor the Area

After extinguishing the fire, monitor the area for any signs of reignition or hotspots. 

Ensure the area remains evacuated until it is declared safe by firefighting professionals.

Dispose of Extinguisher Properly

After use, even if partially discharged, fire extinguishers should be serviced or replaced according to manufacturer guidelines to ensure readiness for future emergencies.

What are the Dangers of Using a Wrong Fire Extinguisher Type on Flammable Liquids?

Using the wrong type of fire extinguisher on flammable liquids can lead to several dangers and exacerbate the fire rather than extinguish it effectively. 

Here are the key risks:

Increased Fire Spread

Using the wrong extinguisher type may not effectively control or suppress the flammable liquid fire. 

Instead, it could spread the fire by agitating the burning liquid or dispersing it, increasing the area affected by flames.

Escalated Danger

Certain extinguishing agents, if incompatible with flammable liquids, can react chemically, producing hazardous by-products or increasing the intensity of the fire. 

For instance, using water or foam on some flammable liquids can cause splashing, spreading the fire or causing explosions.

Ineffective Suppression

Incorrect extinguisher types may not effectively smother the flames or cool the burning liquid, allowing the fire to reignite or continue burning.

Personal Safety Risks

Incorrect use can endanger the person attempting to extinguish the fire. 

Exposure to heat, flames, or chemical reactions from the wrong extinguisher type can result in burns, inhalation of toxic fumes, or other injuries.

Damage to Property

Inadequate suppression can lead to greater property damage. 

Uncontrolled fires can spread rapidly, causing structural damage or affecting nearby equipment and materials.

Conclusion

Hopefully you now have an understanding of which fire Extinguisher should be used for flammable liquids.

Knowing which fire extinguisher to use for flammable liquids is crucial for effective fire management and ensuring the safety of individuals and property. 

By understanding the specific fire classes and corresponding extinguisher types, you empower yourself to respond confidently and swiftly during emergencies.

Fire safety education plays a pivotal role in equipping individuals with the knowledge to make informed decisions under pressure. 

When faced with a fire involving flammable liquids, the ability to identify the appropriate extinguisher – such as a foam or dry powder extinguisher – can significantly mitigate risks and prevent the situation from escalating.