I don’t need to explain the importance of having a fire extinguisher in the workplace.
However buying the right type of fire extinguisher is essential. This will come down to what specific hazards exists in your workplace.
In this review, I’ll give you more information about how to choose the right fire extinguisher.
I’ll also recommended the best options on the market, for whatever your needs are.
Best Fire Extinguisher
First Alert Large Fire Extinguisher
- UL Rated – 2-A: 10-B: C and adheres to 2-A: 1—B: C code requirements
- Made from heavy-duty metal with trigger and valve
- Suitable for putting out various types of fires
- 12-year limited warranty
The First Alert Large Fire Extinguisher is our top choice when it comes to the best fire extinguisher for the workplace.
It is made with commercial-grade metal and adheres to the minimum requirement codes for combatting live electrical equipment, paper, flammable liquid, and wood fires.
The gauge is color-coded to ensure your extinguisher is primed for use in an emergency and the unit can be mounted with the strap and bracket included.
The instruction label is both waterproof and chemical-resilient to avoid fading over time. This fire extinguisher is ideal for use at homes, workshops, and offices.
What customers are saying
Most customers gave the First Alert Fire Extinguisher excellent reviews. They said it is of great quality and works well.
Still, some people had issues with their unit not being charged upon arrival.
Best Large Water Extinguisher
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Every Amerex Fire Extinguisher is accompanied by a comprehensive owner’s manual with all the information you need concerning installation, maintenance, and use.
The label on the fire extinguisher also provides details on using the unit correctly. The information may differ slightly depending on the size and type of model you’ve chosen.
The Amerex 240 model uses soaking, cooling, and penetrating methods of water streaming between 45 – 55 Ft. It is easy to use even if you’ve never operated an extinguisher before.
The unit discharges in 55 seconds and can be used for putting out Class A fires which are started by paper, wood, rubbish, and other standard combustibles.
What customers are saying
Customers were extremely happy with their purchase and praised this model’s easy refilling, charging, large capacity, and powerful spray range.
However, a few customers received units that seemed to be used with various issues relating to parts.
Best Dry Chemical Extinguisher
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This Amerex Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher includes instruction labels, metal valves, and brackets for wall-mounting.
It can be used to put out fires related to flammable gases and liquids, standard combustibles, and energized electrical devices.
This fire extinguisher is what we consider the best dry chemical extinguisher on the market.
People who bought it were extremely satisfied with their purchase and many of them said it is considerably large, well-constructed, and of good quality.
Best Extinguisher For Office
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We love the 10lb Dry Chemical ABC Fire Extinguisher and recommend it for use at the office. This one is suitable for Class A, Class B, and Class C fires.
It is designed with durable hard-wearing materials and fittings that will last for years to come. The manufacturer is so confident in this fact that they included a 6-year warranty on the unit.
This model is also incredibly user-friendly and features a large loop pull-pin, an owner’s manual, an instruction label as well as easy and affordable maintenance and servicing.
What customers are saying
Customers gave this fire extinguisher excellent reviews and were mostly happy with its durable construction and exceptional quality.
Some customers, however, received their units without brackets for wall-mounting and were disappointed that it is not returnable.
Best Fire Extinguisher Ball
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The AFG Mini Fire Extinguisher Ball automatically discharges flame neutralizing components when it comes in contact with fire. Putting out a fire has never been easier.
This extinguisher is eco-friendly and uses non-hazardous dust particles to put out fires. It also removes toxic poisons like hydrogen cyanide and carbon monoxide from the smoke.
The extinguisher ball is safe to use around pets or children and ideal for putting out wood, paper, electrical, and flammable liquid fires.
This unit received 5-star reviews from customers saying that they love the product and it gives them peace of mind for any emergency fire situation that may arise.
Most Environmentally Friendly
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This Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguisher gets our vote for the eco-friendliest fire extinguisher.
It contains no harmful chemicals that could contaminate electronics, food, or other valuable items and is made from tough materials that are designed to withstand impact.
It’s also super easy and comfortable to use as you’ll simply need to pull the safety pin. It contains a step-by-step instruction label and can be used on class B and C fires.
Customers were mostly happy with the unit’s durable construction and the CO2 contents that leaves hardly any residue behind after discharge.
Other Recommended Extinguishers
Kidde Pro 210 ABC Fire Extinguisher
This fire extinguisher offers multi-purpose defense and is suitable for Class A, B, & C fires. It also comes with a gauge that is handy for checking the status of the charge.
The unit is made from lightweight yet strong corrosion resilient aluminum and features a label with clear usage instructions.
Another standout feature on the Kidde Pro 210 ABC is the prompt and forceful discharge time which is between 13 and 15 seconds. It also has a spray range of 10 to 15 feet.
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What makes this fire extinguisher so unique is that it can discharge 4 times more than standard fire extinguishers, this means you can spray for a total of 32 seconds.
The unit comes in a light aerosol format which is easy to hold, carry, and use. This fire extinguisher is perfect for your kitchen, boat, dorm, RV, garage, and more.
It comes with a 3-year limited warranty, it’s ETL rated and it can put out fabric, grease, paper, electrical, and wood fires with ease.
Amerex B456 10lb Multi-Purpose Fire Extinguisher
The Amerex B456 Multi-Purpose Fire Extinguisher is a durable and reliable choice. The unit is perfect for light and medium-duty fires with a temperature range of -65 – 120°F.
It features a metal valve construction, store pressure design, and high gloss hard-wearing polyester powder paint.
It is also easy to maintain and service plus comes with a large range of extras.
H3R Performance MX250B Fire Extinguisher
This Dry Chemical Fire Extinguisher has a gauge to monitor the charge and metal valves.
It also has a lightweight and small design enabling you to keep it at the base of your car’s front seat or pillar.
It’s the perfect choice for people who are looking for a compact, good quality, and durable fire extinguisher to keep in their vehicle.
Types Of Extinguishers
There are various types of fire extinguishers. You can combine some of them to put out different fire types or opt for a multi-purpose one that is suitable for Class A, B, and C fires.
Water based
Water based units are suitable for fires that involve standard elements like straw, paper, coal, or wood.
CO2 based
Carbon dioxide models are typically suited for putting out electrical fires. They are sometimes used for flammable liquid-related fires as well.
Multi-purpose
Multi-purpose or powder units are appropriate choices for workplaces that pose various kinds of fire risks.
They can be used for different types of fire hazards, including electrical fires, gas fires, flammable liquid fires, and standard combustibles.
Wet chemical
Wet chemical models are designed for combatting unique fire hazards like fires starting with fats or cooking oils in the kitchen.
This kind of extinguisher is also suitable for class A (wood, coal, paper, straw, etc.) fires.
Classifications
Fire extinguishers can be classified according to the type of fire they have the capacity to put out.
Class A
Class A fire extinguishers are used for standard combustibles like paper, textiles, wood, some plastics, etc.
This class makes use of heat-absorbing dry chemicals or water. They are usually identified with a triangle featuring an A on it.
Class B
Class B fire extinguishers are used for gas or flammable liquid fires (gasoline, oil, etc.)
Their main purpose is to remove the oxygen that a fire needs to keep burning while preventing the discharging of combustible vapors.
These models are usually identified with a square featuring a B on it.
Class C
Class C fire extinguishers are used for fires that are caused by live electrical equipment.
Other Things To Consider
Placement
Once you have chosen the fire extinguisher that best fits your workplace or home, placement is essential.
Most people might place the unit next to the stove. However, keep in mind, they shouldn’t be close to any high temperatures.
Rather install the fire extinguisher at a location not closer than 5 to 8 feet from possible fire hazard sources like dryers, stoves, fireplaces, etc.
You should be able to access your fire extinguisher safely when there is a fire emergency.
How to use it
Using fire extinguishers is relatively straightforward and most units come with a user manual as well as an instruction sticker on the unit itself.
Be sure to educate all family members or employees on the correct way to use the unit when the need arises. When using a fire extinguisher, remember P.A.S.S. which stands for:
- Pull the safety pin
- Aim the unit at the fire’s base
- Squeeze the fire extinguisher’s trigger
- Sweep the spray along the firebase
Maintenance
According to the NFPA, your fire extinguisher must be installed on each floor or level of your office or home and undergo a yearly inspection.
The USDA recommends that a unit is installed in the kitchen, basement, car, and garage.
They must be installed in places that are easily visible and within reach for adults but still unreachable by children. It should also be close to an exit or escape route.
Standard guidelines for fire extinguisher maintenance:
- Check the unit’s pressure frequently. The gauge needle must be in the green area. Recharge or replace the unit once the needle reaches the red section.
- Check the unit regularly for signs of damage such as rust, leaks, dents, etc.
- Have the unit pressure-tested by an expert at regular intervals of a few years.
- Have the unit professionally recharged after it has been discharged irrespective of how much was used.
- Discard disposable extinguishers after use.