What Colour Code Is Displayed on a Class A Fire Extinguisher?

Knowing which fire extinguisher to use depending on the situation is of paramount importance. After all, if you are able to contain the fire, you can help to prevent a small fire becoming a large-scale disaster.

So, if you’re looking to find out what colour code is displayed on a class A fire extinguisher, you’ve most definitely come to the right place. Continue reading and you’ll discover everything that you need to know.

What Is a Class A Fire?

A Class A fire is one which involves combustible materials including the likes of paper, wood, and textiles. This particular type of fire is commonly put out with water extinguishers, as these are often the most effective for Class A fires – arguably the most common type of fire.

Ignition is caused when the material reaches a certain temperature. So, using a water extinguisher will help to cool down the fire and remove the heat. It will also produce a dampening down effect which helps to avoid reignition. You will know a fire is Class A if it produces ash.

Why Was There A Change in the Colour of Fire Extinguishers?

Prior to 1997, the colour of fire extinguishers was entirely different compared to the ones which are used now. Take the foam extinguisher for instance – this used to be entirely cream, while powder extinguishers were a completely blue colour. However, from 1997 onwards, this was no longer the case. In order to meet British and European standard BS EN3, the colour of fire extinguishers was changed to how they look now.

Ever since the colour code changes were brought into effect, each different fire extinguisher comes in a ‘signal red’ colour scheme. This was mostly due to the fact the connotations associated with that particular colour include danger and fire. As well as this, it makes the extinguishers easy to spot in a room which is full of smoke.

What Colour Code is Displayed on a Class A Fire Extinguisher?

As previously mentioned, water is undoubtedly the most effective extinguisher for putting out Class A fires. A water extinguisher displays a red colour code near the top of the extinguisher, which makes it easy identifiable.

However, it is worth noting that you should never consider using this type of extinguisher on electrical fires. This is because water is a natural conductor of electricity and so it has the potential to spread the fire even further, as well as causing possible electrocution.

CO2 based extinguishers are without a doubt the most effective when it comes to electrical fires. Similarly, water extinguishers should also never be used on flammable liquid fires. This is because the water will spread the fire around instead of extinguishing it.

Conclusion

So, there you have it. Now that you’ve found out what colour code is displayed on a class A extinguisher, you’ll know exactly what to look for in the event of a fire. Having the right knowledge beforehand is hugely beneficial, and will allow you to act quickly and appropriately should a fire occur.

If you need further advice or you have more questions regarding the colour codes of fire extinguishers for class A fires, explore our FAQs, browse through our fire extinguisher range or get in touch with our expert team.