While fire extinguishers are present on properties, there’s a lot more that can be done to protect residents. One of the first things you need to do is understand the root cause of fires and the types of fires there are.

Let’s take a look at the five classes of fire:

Class A Fire

Class A fires are caused by ordinary combustibles such as wood, fabric, paper, plastics, and trash. Class A fire is the most common type of fire and usually occurs when people burn waste. Burning trash also leads to pollution in the air.

Class A fires can be put out by water or monoammonium phosphate.

Class B Fires

Class B fires are more dangerous than Class A fires because they have a liquid or gas as their base. Common liquid based fuel sources include petroleum based oils and paints, kerosene, and gasoline. Butane and propane are also common sources of Class B fires.

To put out a Class B fire, you need to smother it and ensure oxygen doesn’t reach the flames.

Class C Fires

Class C fires are caused by electronics and appliances. Anything that is considered ‘energised equipment’ will cause Class C fires.

Class C fires are common in industrial areas where heavy electrically-powered equipment is utilised. However, short-circuits and electrical wiring problems can also lead to Class C fires, which is why it’s important for residents to be careful.

Class D Fires

The Class D fire are caused by a combustible metal as its fuel source. Examples of such combustible metals include titanium, magnesium, aluminium, and potassium. Such metals are mostly used in laboratories or industrial sites. Therefore, it’s highly unlikely for there to be a Class D fire in residential areas.

To extinguish a Class D fire, dry powder agent is used. This absorbs the heat the fire requires to keep burning, and smothers it as well.

Class K Fire

Class K fires are what homeowners and restaurant owners need to be wary of. This is because class K fires are caused by foods, cooking oil, and grease. Class K fires have their own category because these types of fires are more dangerous than we think. They can destroy homes and restaurants quickly.

This is why it’s important to be prepared for all kinds of fires. Installing a water misting system in residents’ homes and the building can prevent fire damage. Water misting systems automatically spray water in the form of mist to ensure no fatalities occur. They smother fire, giving residents enough time to escape and call the fire department.

If you are looking affordable, yet high-quality fire safety systems, Water Misting Systems has you covered. We are the child company of IPH Mist Suppression and provide attested fire safety products to ensure your safety.

To learn more about us, contact us and get a free quote today.