What Should A Water Extinguisher Not Be Used For?

Introduction

As a ubiquitous fire safety equipment, water extinguishers are often used in many buildings to fight fires. However, not many people are aware of the limitations and potential risks involved in using water extinguishers. In this article, we will delve deep into what a water extinguisher should not be used for and why.

Background

Water extinguishers are most commonly used to fight Class A fires, which consist of combustible materials like wood, paper, and fabrics. The water extinguisher works by cooling down the fire and smothering the flames, ultimately putting it out. However, it is not suitable for all types of fires.

What should a water extinguisher not be used for?

1. Electrical fires
Electricity and water do not mix well. Using water extinguishers on electrical fires can result in severe injury or death as the water conducts electricity, which could lead to electrical shock. Instead, use CO2 or dry powder extinguishers or smother the fire with a fire blanket.

2. Flammable liquid fires
Water is not effective in putting out fires involving flammable liquids like petrol, diesel, or oil. In fact, it can spread the fire by causing the flames to leap to other parts of the room, making it even harder to put out. Using a water extinguisher on fuel fires is dangerous as it can spread the flames and cause severe injury. The best way to put out fires involving flammable liquids is to use foam or dry powder extinguishers.

3. Cooking fires
Cooking fires are common in kitchens, but using a water extinguisher to put it out can be dangerous. Most kitchen fires involve grease and oil, and using water to put out fires can cause the oil to splatter, increasing the risk of injury. Instead, use a fire blanket or a CO2 or dry powder extinguisher.

4. Metal fires
Water should never be used on metal fires, as it can react explosively with certain metals, such as magnesium and sodium, causing the fire to intensify. Moreover, it is not effective in putting out metal fires. Instead, use dry powder extinguishers designed explicitly for these types of fires.

5. Chemical fires
It is dangerous to use water extinguishers on chemical fires as it can cause the chemicals to spread, releasing toxic fumes. Moreover, using water on chemical fires could result in an explosion or chemical reaction, which could cause severe injury or death. Use a CO2 or dry powder extinguisher or alert professional responders to the incident.

6. Fires involving live animals
It is not advisable to use water extinguishers on animal fires or those involving live or endangered animals. In most cases, animals will instinctively flee from the flames, and using a water extinguisher could harm them and lead to further injury.

Conclusion

Water extinguishers are a handy tool in putting out fires, but it is vital to know what type of fire they are suitable for and what they should not be used for. Using them incorrectly could not only endanger your own life but also others. Therefore, it is recommended that you receive proper training on the use of fire extinguishers to ensure that you know how to use them effectively and safely.