Fire Classes 101: A Beginner's Guide

FIRE CLASSES 101: A BEGINNER'S GUIDE

Understanding fire classes is essential for choosing the right extinguisher. In Ireland and the EU, we use 5 fire classes (A, B, C, D, F). Each class represents a different type of fire, and different extinguishers handle different classes.

FIRE CLASS A: Ordinary Combustibles

Wood, paper, textiles, plastics, and other solid materials.

When to use: Kitchen fires involving paper towels, cardboard, or wooden furniture.

Best extinguisher: Water-based foam (Fire Safety Stick) or powder extinguishers.

FIRE CLASS B: Flammable Liquids

Petrol, diesel, oil, paint, and other liquid fuels.

When to use: Car fires, workshop spills, or kitchen grease fires.

Best extinguisher: Foam (PFAS Free) (Fire Safety Stick) or powder extinguishers. Never use water on Class B fires—it spreads the fuel.

FIRE CLASS C: Flammable Gases

Propane, butane, natural gas, and other compressed gases.

When to use: Gas cylinder leaks or appliance fires.

Best extinguisher: Powder extinguishers. Evacuate and call emergency services immediately.

FIRE CLASS D: Metals

Magnesium, aluminium powder, titanium, and other combustible metals.

When to use: Industrial workshops or laboratories (rare in homes).

Best extinguisher: Specialist dry powder extinguishers. Standard extinguishers won't work.

FIRE CLASS F: Cooking Oils and Fats

Hot cooking oil and fat from deep fryers and cooking appliances.

When to use: Kitchen fires from oil splatters or overheating pans.

Best extinguisher: Specialist Class F extinguishers (wet chemical). Never use water—it causes violent explosions.

WHICH EXTINGUISHER SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

- Home kitchens: Fire Safety Stick (covers A, B, C, F) or Class F specialist extinguisher

- Cars and vans: 1kg or 2kg ABC Powder (covers A, B, C)

- Workshops: 2kg ABC Powder or specialist equipment

- Rental properties: Powder extinguisher (meets compliance standards)

QUICK SAFETY TIPS

✔ Always evacuate first—don't fight a large fire

✔ Only use an extinguisher if the fire is small and contained

✔ Know where your extinguisher is located

✔ Check the pressure gauge monthly (powder extinguishers)

✔ Never use water on Class B, C, D, or F fires

✔ Call emergency services: 999

NEED MORE HELP?

For first aid guidance, visit our First Aid 101 guide.

For home fire prevention, check out our Home Fire Safety Guide.

Questions? Contact us: support@safetyinstore.ie

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