Although practical, a standard fire extinguisher is often not very aesthetically pleasing. While its presence is reassuring in places where it is mandatory, its appearance keeps it out of private homes. To remedy this, this fire safety equipment is now available as a decorative object. However, its primary function remains fire protection.
Why have a fire extinguisher at home?
In a standardized installation, a fire detector acts as an alarm. The fire extinguisher is then the first-response solution to smother a fire. The presence of this fire protection device is life-saving if the fire outbreak is detected within a minute. In such cases, it allows for a first intervention pending the arrival of emergency services.
While private homes are not required to have a fire extinguisher, it is highly recommended to equip oneself with one. To prevent a disaster, it is important to remember that no one is immune to an accidental fire. The origins of a fire are multiple and are not necessarily linked to human manipulation of a flame source.
The different categories of fire
Fires are classified differently according to their origins. For homes, only four categories of fire are considered:
- Class A: concerns dry fires caused by the combustion of materials generating embers (paper, cardboard, etc.);
- Class B: these are grease fires, caused by the combustion of liquefiable materials;
- Class C: characteristic of gas fires;
- Class K (FPA standard) or F: fires resulting from cooking devices.
The most common factors of domestic fires
Fire outbreaks linked to electrical installations account for more than 25% of domestic fires. They are most often due to an electrical malfunction or a short circuit. The risk becomes greater when several devices are plugged into a power strip.
Heat appliances, such as halogen lighting, radiators, and boilers, can also cause fires. They pose a risk when installed near flammable materials.
The kitchen is a room where fire outbreaks are common. They are most often triggered by cooking appliances that are improperly turned off, defective, or simply by accident.
Children and their great curiosity can also accidentally start a fire. Therefore, it is recommended never to leave matches or lighters within their reach.
How to integrate a fire extinguisher into your interior?
The National Observatory of Electrical Safety records more than 200,000 fires per year, some of which are fatal. If the traditional red fire extinguisher puts you off, you will now find many designer models at Safe-T.
Safe-T offers a varied range of home fire extinguishers. They are as effective as they are pleasant to look at. Let yourself be tempted by a Betty Boop model or opt for a matte black color for discretion.
As a reminder, this fire safety equipment must be placed conspicuously and within reach. Also, it will be chosen according to the room and the type of fire that could potentially break out there.