Class B Fires: Which Fire Extinguisher Should You Use?

Fire accidents don’t always start with wood or paper, if you know this thing. Many times, the real danger comes from liquids like petrol, diesel, oil, or chemicals. And these types of fires spread fast and become hard to control if you don’t act at the right time. That’s why we call these fires Class B Fires.

What Is a Class B Fire? Understanding the Basics

A Class B fire is a fire that involves flammable liquids. This includes things like petrol, diesel, oil, paint, solvents, grease, and similar substances. So, when someone asks what is a Class B fire, the simple answer is: it is a fire where liquid fuel is burning, not solid material. These fires do not burn like wood. But it spreads on the surface of the liquid and can move very fast. That’s why Class B fires involve higher risk if not handled properly.

Risks and Common Causes of Class B Fires

Class B fires usually happen because of daily mistakes or poor safety control. You can find some common causes including:

• Fuel leakage near machines
• Oil spills in factories or kitchens
• Improper storage of flammable liquids
• Sparks near petrol or solvent areas
• Overheating of machines using oil or chemicals

Which Fire Extinguisher Should You Use for Class B Fires?

Now comes the most important part: class b fire extinguisher used for these fires. Not every extinguisher is safe. You should not use water to cool down the fire.

Here are the right options, as used in the industry and recommended by Kanex Fire Solutions Limited.

1. ABC Type Fire Extinguisher

An ABC type fire extinguisher is commonly used because it can handle multiple fire classes. This is a good general safety option. It works on Class B fires by cutting off the fire reaction.

It is suitable for:

• Offices
• Shops
• Small industrial areas

2. Foam Fire Extinguisher

A foam fire extinguisher is one of the best choices for Class B fires. It forms a thick layer over the burning liquid and stops oxygen from reaching it.

It is mostly used in:

• Fuel storage areas
• Workshops
• Warehouses
• Industrial floors

3. CO2 Fire Extinguisher

A CO2 fire extinguisher removes oxygen from the fire. It does not leave residue, which makes it suitable near electrical panels and machines along with liquid fires.

It is used in:

• Electrical rooms
• Control panels
• Server areas
• Machinery zones

4. Clean Agent Fire Extinguisher

A clean agent fire extinguisher is used where equipment protection is important. It puts out fire without leaving any mess.

It is preferred in:

• Data centres
• Control rooms
• Sensitive equipment areas

So, when choosing a Class B Fire extinguisher, you must look at the area and the risk involved.

Class B Fire Safety Tips and Prevention

Fire safety is not only about extinguishers. Knowing the classes of fire helps you react correctly during emergencies. Here are the tips to prevent such fires, read carefully: 

You should:

• Store flammable liquids properly
• Keep ignition sources away from liquid fuel
• Train staff on extinguisher use
• Place the correct extinguisher near risk areas
• Do regular safety checks

Why Choose Kanex Fire Solutions Limited for Class B Fire Protection

When it comes to fire safety equipment, quality is one of the most important things. Kanex Fire Solutions Limited provides fire extinguishers designed as per Indian and international safety standards.

We offer: 

• ABC type fire extinguisher
• Foam fire extinguisher
• CO2 fire extinguisher
• Clean agent fire extinguisher
• Automatic Modular Type Fire Extinguishers
• Special Application Fire Extinguishers
• Lithium-ion Fire Extinguishers
• UL Fire Extinguishers

Conclusion

Class B fires are very serious because they involve flammable liquids and that’s what spreads fast. Using the wrong extinguisher can increase the danger instead of reducing it. That’s why understanding what is a Class B fire and using the correct Class B fire extinguisher used for such fires is very important. Now, as per your requirement, you can buy the right fire extinguisher from Kanex Fire Solutions Limited. With proper guidance and equipment, you can control Class B fires safely and protect people, property, and machines.