Water Fire Extinguishers Guide – All You Need to Know
Water fire extinguishers are a fundamental component of fire safety equipment. They are designed to tackle specific types of fires effectively and are recognised for their simplicity, efficiency, and eco-friendliness.
We explain everything you need to know about water fire extinguishers, from their primary uses to how they operate. It ensures you’re well-prepared for emergencies.
Quick links:
What fires are water extinguishers used for?
Water fire extinguishers are primarily used to combat Class A fires involving solid materials, typically organic in nature, such as wood, paper, cloth, trash, and plastics.
They are ideal for environments where these materials are in abundance. They work by effectively cooling the fire and reducing the risk of re-ignition.
Exclusions (what they should not be used for)
Understanding that water fire extinguishers are unsuitable for all fire types is critical; this extinguisher type should not be used on:
- Class B fires – involving flammable liquids such as petrol, diesel, or oils, as water can spread the fire.
- Class C fires – involving gases.
- Class D fires – involving metals.
- Class F fires – involving cooking oils and fats as water can cause the burning oil to splatter and spread.
How to identify them
In the UK, water fire extinguishers are easily identifiable by their bright red label.
However, it’s always important to carefully read the instructions and labels before use.
Common water extinguisher sizes
How they work
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Many are environmentally friendly, as they only use water, although some use an additive.
- Easy to use and maintain.
- Effective on Class A fires, cooling the fire and preventing re-ignition.
Cons:
- Only suitable for one fire type
- This extinguisher can cause damage to electrical equipment and documents.
Fire extinguisher guide
Keep your people safe with us
Learn about the fire extinguishers variants and how they help extinguish the various fire types.
Common uses, what businesses typically use them
Water fire extinguishers are commonly used in environments with a high presence of organic materials, such as:
- Offices
- Schools, Colleges and Universities
- Retail and commercial buildings
- Domestic residences
- Public buildings like libraries, museums etc.
- Historical buildings
- Warehouses and storage facilities storing non-flammable materials
- Airbnb and holiday rentals
Typical use cases for water fire extinguishers
Typical use cases for water
fire extinguishers
How to use a water extinguisher
- Pull the pin: Break the tamper seal.
- Aim low: Direct the hose or nozzle at the base of the fire, maintaining a safe distance.
- Squeeze the handle: This releases the water.
- Sweep side to side: Move the stream or hose in a sweeping motion across the base of the fire until it is extinguished.
Always ensure your escape route is behind you, and never use water on electrical fires or fires involving flammable liquids and gases.
Water fire extinguishers are indispensable tools for combating Class A fires. Understanding their capabilities and limitations is crucial for ensuring the safety of individuals using them. After use, it’s vital to have the extinguisher refilled and serviced by a professional to ensure it’s ready for any future emergency.
Talk to us about your water extinguisher needs and your wider fire safety requirements
Talk to IPS Fire and Safety about your fire safety responsibilities. From an initial fire risk assessment to team fire safety training and the supply and fitting of fire extinguishers, we’re here to help you keep your people safe and meet your legal fire safety requirements.
FIRE SAFETY
Fire Class Guide
FIRE SAFETY
Fire Extinguisher Guide
FIRE SAFETY
Water Fire Extinguishers
FIRE SAFETY
CO2 Fire Extinguishers
FIRE SAFETY
Foam Fire Extinguishers
FIRE SAFETY
Powder Fire Extinguishers
FIRE SAFETY
Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers
FIRE SAFETY
Care Home Fire Essentials
FIRE SAFETY
Fire Safety in Your Airbnb
Our Fire Safety services
FIRE RISK ASSESSMENTS
FIRE ALARMS
FIRE EXTINGUISHERS
FIRE SAFETY TRAINING
Total client protection since 2004
At IPS, your security is our priority. You need dependable protection 24/7, 365 days a year, and for that reason, our engineers are always available. You can depend on us to ensure you are always protected.
100% INDEPENDENT
We’re fully independent, providing unbiased solutions tailored just for you.
EXPERTISE
CUSTOMER-FIRST
COMPREHENSIVE COVERAGE
We're trusted by some fantastic organisations
Contact us for a free quote
Or call the team on 0333 444 5 999
Our Priority is You
We pride ourselves on the impeccable service we provide our customers. From the first conversation to ongoing support for your fire, security and safety needs, you'll wonder why you left it so long to contact us.
