Every home should be equipped with a fire extinguisher. This would indeed reduce the risk of fire spreading throughout all rooms. Statistics show that in France, approximately 250,000 cases are reported to insurance companies each year. Even though owning one at home is not mandatory, it is highly recommended to be prepared for the worst-case scenario.
An Essential Device for Enhanced Safety
In a house, fire can originate from several places. Firstly, there are electrical sources. In the event of a short circuit or malfunction in a home's electrical system, wires can ignite. As conductors, they will quickly spread flames through various cables. Secondly, there is gas and heat in the kitchen. These two are the main origins of domestic fires. A poorly maintained or misused space heater can cause significant damage, as can a clogged or improperly extinguished chimney flue.
Unlike smoke detectors, which are mandatory in all homes, fire extinguishers are not. However, having one would reduce fires and the spread of flames, which claim many victims.
Types of Existing Fire Extinguishers
Three types are currently on the market.
- Class A extinguishers suitable for fires involving ordinary combustibles (fabric, paper, and wood)
- Class B extinguishers for fires caused by grease, oil, or gasoline
- Class C extinguishers for fires originating from electrical current.
There is an ABC multi-purpose powder extinguisher that can extinguish these three classes of fire simultaneously. It is perfect for a house, garage, or workshop. However, it is very aggressive, as the powder will corrode everything it touches.
Considering Design When Purchasing
Normally, every building should have a fire extinguisher. It is common to see the classic black and red devices. But, for more aesthetics, especially if it's your home, why not opt for other more original designs or colorful extinguishers? For animal lovers, animals are currently in the spotlight on extinguisher designs. Dogs, wild animals, elephants—SAFE-T models are not lacking in originality. There are even those covered with synthetic fabric in wild animal colors.
For example, if you decide to place yours in the living room, a fish design would suit you perfectly. You could place it on the wall next to a dresser so that at a quick glance, one might think it's real.
Combining Aesthetic Appeal and Practicality
The letters preceded by numbers, better known as "fire ratings," inscribed on the certification label, determine the extinguisher's effectiveness. On one hand, the letters correspond to the fire classes covered. On the other hand, the numbers indicate the volume of fire to be fought. For example, if you see 45 A, 253B, C on it, the explanation is as follows:
- 45A indicates that it can handle a maximum volume of 45 kilograms of solid material (Class A)
- 253B means 253 liters of Class B fire
- C means it can be used on Class C fires
Several models with different designs are at your disposal. Choose one that you like, taking into account this useful factor.