Types of Fire Extinguishers and Where to Install Them in Your Home or Office

1. Types of Fire Extinguishers and Where to Install Them in Your Home or Office Fire extinguishers might not be the most exciting item on your checklist, but when something catches alight, you'll be glad you have the right one within reach. Not all fires burn the same way, and not all extinguishers work for every situation. Knowing which type to install—and where—can make a big difference to safety at home or in the workplace. If you're planning a new setup or reviewing your current fire safety measures, proper fire extinguisher installation in Sydney should be at the top of your list. Types of Fire Extinguishers and Their Uses Let’s look at the five main types used in residential and commercial spaces: 1. Water (Class A) Best for: Paper, fabric, wood

2. Avoid using around: Electricals or flammable liquids These are common in offices with lots of paper and minimal electrical equipment. Don’t place them in kitchens or IT rooms. 2. Foam (Class A and B) Best for: Combustible materials and flammable liquids like petrol Foam extinguishers are often seen in warehouses, garages, and storage areas. One advantage is they form a blanket over the surface of a flammable liquid to prevent re-ignition. 3. Dry Powder (Class A, B, C) Best for: Mixed fire risks including gases like propane This is a great option for outdoor use or spaces where multiple fire risks are present. They’re messy, though—so not ideal for indoor office environments unless absolutely necessary. 4. CO₂ ₂ (Class E) Best for: Electrical fires CO₂ extinguishers don’t leave residue, making them perfect for server rooms, office cubicles with computers, or areas with live electrical panels. If you're unsure about fire extinguisher installation cost, it’s worth comparing this against the potential damage of an electrical fire. 5. Wet Chemical (Class F) Best for: Cooking oils and fats These are kitchen essentials, particularly in cafes, food courts, or residential homes with large cooking areas. Wet chemical extinguishers cool the flames and prevent re-ignition by forming a soapy layer on the burning oil. Where to Install Them Home Kitchen: Wet chemical extinguisher, never water. Garage/Workshop: Dry powder is a safe bet here. • • Living areas: Foam or water for everyday fire risks. •

3. Office Open plan spaces: Foam or water-based extinguishers. Server rooms: CO₂ is the cleanest and most effective. • • Break rooms/kitchens: Wet chemical to tackle oil fires. • Each extinguisher should be mounted at eye level near exit points, allowing a safe escape route. Don’t install them in hard-to-reach corners or behind obstacles. Fire safety isn’t just about the gear—it’s also about accessibility and quick thinking in emergencies. Keep Them in Working Order Having the right extinguishers is only part of the job. Routine servicing and checks are just as important. Schedule regular fire extinguisher maintenance in Sydney to make sure your devices are fully pressurised, unexpired, and ready to use. A faulty extinguisher in an emergency is as good as none. Whether you’re updating your home safety setup or managing an office fire plan, knowing what goes where can make all the difference. Install the correct type, keep it visible, and maintain it regularly—because when it comes to fire, a few seconds can change everything.