Wet chemical fire extinguishers are essential to combat fires involving cooking oils and fats, commonly found in kitchens and food preparation areas.
Our blog will explore the mechanisms of a wet chemical fire extinguisher and what makes it such a powerful tool for controlling a sudden fire outbreak.
Dive into how these extinguishers work, when to use them, and why they are critical in any fire safety strategy.
In this guide:
- What is a Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher?
- What is a Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher Used For?
- How Does Wet Chemical Extinguish a Fire?
- How to Use a Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher
- Benefits and Drawbacks of a Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher
- Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher FAQs
What is a Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher?
Wet chemical fire extinguishers are invaluable for putting out pan and deep fat fryer fires, also known as Class F fires. Class F fires usually involve substances like vegetable oils, animal fats, and other high-temperature cooking materials.
These fires are notoriously difficult to extinguish with traditional fire extinguishers due to their high temperatures and chances of reignition.
What is a Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher Used For?
A wet chemical fire extinguisher can be used for:
- Class F fires: pan or deep fryer fires that include cooking oils and fats
- Class A fires: fires that involve flammable solids such as wood and paper
There are several instances when a wet chemical fire extinguisher should NOT be used, such as:
- Class B fires: fires that involve flammable liquids (although there are some exceptions, it is essential to check the label to see if your extinguisher can be used on such fire types)
- Class C fires originate from flammable gases such as propane and butane.
- Electrical fires: from live electrical equipment such as generators and computers
How Does Wet Chemical Extinguish a Fire?
Wet chemical extinguishers contain potassium. Potassium salts are sprayed gently as a fine mist so as not to spread the burning oil or fat. These salts react to create a soapy foam that covers the surface of the fire. This mist is fine so as not to spread the burning oil while creating a cooling effect that smothers the fire.
How to Use a Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher
A wet chemical fire extinguisher must be used carefully as there is a risk of splashing burning fat or oil into surrounding areas.
Use the following instructions to use a wet chemical fire extinguisher safely:
- Remove the safety pin to break the anti-tamper seal and stand at a safe distance
- If possible, switch off the heat source (for example, the stove)
- Take the lance and hold it at arm's length; the nozzle should be a minimum of 1 metre from the flames
- Use circular motions to gently spray so that the salts will form a foam and settle onto the surface
- Keep spraying until the container is empty to reduce the risk of reignition
Benefits and Drawbacks of a Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher
Benefits
- This fire extinguisher is the sole option for extinguishing a fire from cooking fat or oil.
- The wet chemical agent not only extinguishes the fire but also cools the burning oil, reducing the risk of re-ignition.
- It is safe to use in kitchens and food preparation areas as the chemical agent is non-toxic, which is crucial in areas where food safety is a concern.
Drawbacks
- Wet chemical fire extinguishers have limited use and are primarily effective in kitchen environments.
- Wet chemical extinguishers can be more expensive than other types due to their specialised use.
- Proper training is essential to ensure effective use of fire extinguishers
Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher FAQs
What is the difference between a wet and dry chemical fire extinguisher?
A wet chemical fire extinguisher is designed for class F fires involving cooking oils and fats. It uses a liquid solution to smother flames. In contrast, a dry chemical fire extinguisher can be used on class A, B, and C fires, using a powder to smother the flames.
How do you identify a wet chemical fire extinguisher?
You can easily identify a wet chemical fire extinguisher by looking for a yellow-coloured label on the body that reads ‘Wet Chemical’ and a long hose with a lance attachment.
Where is a wet chemical extinguisher needed?
To prepare for a class F fire, a wet chemical fire extinguisher should be present on the following premises:
- Restaurants
- Fast food drive-thrus
- Hotel kitchens
- School kitchens
Browse Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers at the Fire & Safety Centre
Our mission is to supply individuals and businesses with the appropriate equipment to combat a sudden fire outbreak safely. Eliminate the risk that a class F fire can pose by investing in one of our wet chemical fire extinguishers. Be prepared to combat a kitchen fire and ensure the safety of yourself and those around you.
At Fire and Safety Centre, we offer various fire safety and protection equipment, from fire extinguishers to fire blankets. Allow us to protect you in the event of a fire outbreak. Take the proactive approach and prepare for a fire outbreak with our extensive range of products, or contact our team today to discuss your fire safety requirements.