It is never easy to choose from the different types of fire extinguishers so we have produced a chart to help you decide which ones are good for which fire risks. Just click the links or images to see the various sizes and prices for each type. There is also a print facility at the bottom right of the chart to get a pdf copy.

Section 1 - Classes of fire and fire extinguisher types

Section 2 - How many extinguishers do you need?

Section 3 - Where to position your fire fighting equipment

Section 4 - Different ways to wall hang or stand your extinguishers

Section 5 - Annual maintenance and monthly inspections

Section 6 - How to save money on your maintenance

Which Extinguisher to use
		wood, paper, textiles, fabric	petrol, diesel, oils, liquids	gas, butane, methane, etc	metals, magnesium, swarf	electrics, computers, machinery, etc	cooking oil, deep fat fryers
Water
Hydrospray (Water Additive)		click for note This is much better for offices, shops, hotels, etc than plain water				click for note This extinguisher has a special safety nozzle to make it safe to use near (but not directly on) electrical equipment. But, you must have CO2 extinguishers for the electrical risks
CO2 (Carbon Dioxide)
Foam (AFFF)			click for note Best for fuel and running liquid fires			click for note This extinguisher has a special safety nozzle to make it safe to use near (but not directly on) electrical equipment. But, you must have CO2 extinguishers for the electrical risks
Powder		click for note Best for multiple risk areas like workshops, vehicles and homes but not to be used for offices, shops, hotels		click for note Gas fires are best extinguished by turning the gas off. If it cannot be turned off, the explosion risk from escaping gas is worse so leave it burning		click for note Safe to use on electrical equipment but CO2 is much better and powder will make a mess that needs cleaning up
Metal Powder (M28 and L2)					click for note The only extinguishers for metal fires but make sure you select the correct one (L2 does it all). Training recommended
Monnex Powder			click for note Most powerful powder in any portable extinguisher. Fantastic for airport and high fire risk use	click for note Gas fires are best extinguished by turning the gas off. If it cannot be turned off, the explosion risk from escaping gas is worse so leave it burning		click for note Safe to use o n electrical equipment but CO2 is much better and powder will make a mess that needs cleaning up
Wet Chemical		click for note Although suitable for class A fires, this extinguisher is only designed for commercial kitchens with deep fat fryers					click for note Nothing else will put out a fire in a commercial deep fat fryer. All other extinguishers are dangerous in this situation
Hose Reel