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Fire safety is paramount, especially in kitchens as kitchen fires are one of the most frequent types of household accidents. Distraction at any moment can cause an instant hazardous condition. Using fire extinguisher products can make a great difference. During a small fire, speedy and correct action with an extinguisher is able to confine the fire from spreading. This results in less property damage and protects lives. Being aware of its usage makes you able to act quickly and effectively in a crisis.

Why are kitchen fire extinguishers important?

Kitchens are subject to fire hazards due to the presence of electrical appliances, hot oil, and open flames. The chances of fire outbreak in the kitchen is high, yet most people still lack a kitchen fire extinguisher to deal with the fire. A fire extinguisher applied at the initial stage of fire could easily prevent it from becoming uncontrollable. While fire suppression systems might be beneficial, they cannot address fire issues independently. Commercial and domestic kitchens thus need to have a fire extinguisher installed.

 The kitchen fires are divided into three – class A, B and C fires.

Class A fires are due to materials that are combustible such as wood, paper, and fabric.

Class B fires are created by oily liquids and grease. Most kitchen fires fall under this category.

Class C  –  fires involved in gases 

Class E  fires include electrical devices such as domestic appliances such as toasters, microwaves, and ovens.

Types of kitchen fire extinguishers

There exist different types of kitchen fire extinguishers depending on the nature of the fire. The common types are:

Dry chemical extinguishers

These are appropriate to fight class A, B and C fires. The fire extinguisher uses a powder to force fuel out of oxygen, thus preventing the fire. A chemical called monoammonium phosphate is used inside the extinguisher. The powder creates chemical insulation for a Class A fire, disrupts the chain reaction in a Class B fire, and is non-conductive, making it safe to use in a Class C fire.

CO2 extinguishers

They are the ideal choice for extinguishing electrical fires. CO2 extinguishers displace the oxygen around the fire with carbon dioxide, so the fire is extinguished. Never use them in enclosed areas since they displace oxygen and cause suffocation due to the reduction of oxygen.

Class K extinguishers

They are employed against fires due to cooking oils and fats. Class K extinguishers are the only extinguishers that can be used to put out fires involving animal fats and cooking oils. Other types can be less effective and even make it worse. They suppress the fire by releasing a chemical that reacts with the oil or fat and forms a soapy material that extinguishes the fire.

Step-by-step instructions for operating a kitchen fire extinguisher

Remember the PASS technique

P – Pull out the safety pin on the extinguisher to release the extinguishing agent.

A – Point at the bottom of the fire and not the flames to properly extinguish the fire.

S – Squeeze the handle to release the agent.

S – Sweep the nozzle from side to side to pass over the entire base of the fire.

Maintain a safe distance

Safety will be very important when using a commercial kitchen fire extinguisher. Keep at least 6-8 feet of space from the fire. While the fire begins to decrease, move closer to assure full extinguishing.

Focus on the base of the fire

Spraying at the flames is ineffective. Instead, aim at the base of the fire. By aiming at the base, you can cut off the spread of the fire. Extinguish the fire fully to prevent it from flaring up again.

Monitor for reignition

There is a possibility of re ignition even after the fire has been put out. Stay alert and watch for signs of fire coming back. If it reignites, repeat the process and if it grows uncontrollable evacuate immediately and call emergency services.

Tips for maintaining a kitchen fire extinguisher

Inspect the pressure gauge every month and verify that the needle is within the green area. When the pressure is too high or low, the extinguisher will not function. Check the nozzle for clogs that may block the spray. Wipe the nozzle clean regularly to ensure a clear discharge path.. So give it a gentle shake every few months to keep the chemicals loose and ready for use. Commercial kitchen fire extinguishers must be refilled or replaced even after partial discharge to ensure full functionality next time.

Conclusion

Fire attacks can happen at any time, particularly in the kitchen. So fire safety precautions are to be adopted. Having a kitchen fire extinguisher and the knowledge of how to use it can prepare you for it. Class K extinguishers are advised for fires that take place in the kitchen. Keeping a properly maintained extinguisher in your kitchen enables you to face any fire danger if ever happens.

Contact Safetik, one of the leading firefighting equipment suppliers for fire and safety services in Kerala. They deliver fire safety solutions across various sectors and ensure you are fully prepared to face fire issues.

Fire safety- the ultimate thing that everyone should be aware of. We cannot predict the hazards that cross our path, and it is very vital to keep a fire and safety system that never compromises the quality. No matter where you live or work, you need to be informed about the basics of fire safety and equipped with the right tools. Unlike traditional extinguishers that are difficult to handle, water mist fire extinguishers are an effective and eco-friendly fire-fighting solution. To educate you more, this blog will cover the key benefits of using water mist fire extinguishers.

What is a Water Mist Fire Extinguisher?

A water mist fire extinguisher is a fixed fire safety device that emits a thin mist of tiny water droplets. The water mist systems use a specially made nozzle to spray ultra-fine water droplets through, causing the water to break up into hundreds of tiny droplets that create the mist while cooling down.

Water droplets will displace oxygen and remove heat from the afflicted area at the time of fire breakout and suppress the fire.  The temperature, radiated heat, and oxygen concentration are all lowered by the mist to the point where combustion is no longer possible. These extinguishers are versatile and helpful in suppressing all types of fires, including:

 1. Class A: Fires produced by solid combustible materials such as wood, paper, and textiles.

 2. Class B: Fires caused by flammable liquids like petrol, diesel, and oil.

 3. Class C: Fires involving gases such as propane and butane.

 4. Electrical Fires: Unlike traditional water extinguishers, water mist does not conduct electricity, making it safe for electrical fire suppression.

Key Benefits of Water Mist Fire Extinguishers

Safe for Use on Electrical Fires

The first and foremost water mist fire extinguisher benefit is that, unlike traditional water extinguishers, it can be used on electrical fires. The ability to combat electrical fires makes it an ideal choice among fire prevention methods. The fine mist produced does not conduct electricity, making it a safer option, and it can be used in offices, hospitals and data centres where electrical fire dangers are common. 

Suitable for Multiple Fire Classes

An ideal fire extinguisher should be capable of putting off all types of fires, irrespective of the fire class system. Water mist fire extinguishers stand out at this moment, where they act as a life saver by having the power to extinguish Class A (solid materials), Class B (flammable liquids), and Class C (gases) fires. As an additional note, it is also effective on cooking oil and grease fires in kitchens, stating its water mist fire protection benefit in the households too.

No Harmful Chemicals

Another important water mist extinguisher benefit is that it uses only water, making it non-toxic and safe for humans, pets, and the environment. There are no harmful residues or chemicals that cause future health problems, making it ideal for food-related environments and hospitals. Therefore, this can be used in hospitals, schools and any working environment where the ultimate priority lies in safety. 

Reduces Smoke and Toxins

In most cases, the fire suppression causes a pathetic situation where a pretty good amount of smoke is released, affecting the daily life of individuals. This can create major respiratory problems with the toxins produced. On the safety side, this problem can be solved with a water mist fire extinguisher that cools the fire and reduces the production of harmful smoke and gases. It also helps improve air quality and visibility in a fire emergency.

Eco-Friendly Solution

The best eco-friendly fire extinguisher is undoubtedly the water mist fire extinguisher, and Water mist fire protection benefit is something that aids both humans and the environment. It does not release harmful chemicals or greenhouse gases. Also, Biodegradable and safe for the environment, elevating it as a safety measure that aligns with nature’s rules.

Minimal Cleanup Required

One of the major problems for traditional extinguishers is their difficulty to clean and maintain. On the contrary, water mist fire protection benefits include the minimal cleanup where you can simply clean it up in less time.  Unlike foam or powder extinguishers, water mist leaves little to no residue, making post-fire cleanup quick and easy.

Efficient and Fast Fire Suppression

The water mist fire extinguisher advantages extend to efficient and fast fire suppression. Water mist quickly cools the fire, reducing the chance of re-ignition, and small water droplets evaporate fast, absorbing heat more effectively. It is certainly perfect for all sorts of fire suppression. 

Conclusion

Water mist fire extinguishers are useful for battling a wide range of fires. This makes them suitable for a wide range of facilities. Unlike traditional fire extinguishers, the Water mist fire extinguisher advantages include the ability to suppress multiple types of fires, non-toxic nature, and minimal cleanup requirements, make them an excellent choice for homes, businesses, and industrial settings. 

It is definitely a wise choice if you are looking for a reliable safety measure for your home or enterprise. Encourage readers to consider them as a reliable fire safety solution. If you’re looking for fire and safety services in Kerala, you can rely on Safetik to ensure the best services. Remember, a water mist fire extinguisher can significantly improve property and life safety. Discover premium fire safety products and water mist fire extinguishers to increase the security and safety of your building.