Buying guide · 6 min read
Which Fire Extinguisher Should My Business Buy?
Different fires need different extinguishers. Using the wrong one can make a fire worse, so start with the fire risks in your building.
Fire classes in plain language
- Class A — paper, wood, cloth, plastic.
- Class B — flammable liquids like petrol, diesel, paint and solvents.
- Class C — flammable gases such as LPG (cooking gas).
- Electrical — computers, panels, wiring (not a class itself, but a risk to plan for).
- Class K (or F) — cooking oils and fats in deep fryers.
The three main types we supply
- Dry chemical (ABC) — the all-rounder for A, B, C and electrical fires. Good for most offices, shops, warehouses and vehicles.
- CO2 — leaves no residue, ideal for electrical equipment, server rooms and offices with electronics.
- Wet chemical — made for cooking-oil fires in commercial kitchens.
Recommendations by type of business
- Offices and banks: ABC dry chemical in corridors plus CO2 near computers and electrical panels.
- Retail shops and supermarkets: ABC dry chemical at exits and stock areas.
- Restaurants, fast food and hotel kitchens: wet chemical beside fryers, a kitchen suppression system over the cooking line, and ABC for the dining area.
- Gas stations, garages and workshops: larger ABC dry chemical units; CO2 for electrical areas.
- Warehouses and factories: ABC dry chemical spread through the floor so no one walks far to reach one.
- Schools, churches and clinics: ABC dry chemical on each floor, CO2 near labs or equipment rooms.
How many do I need?
A common rule is that no one should travel more than about 23 metres (75 feet) to reach an extinguisher, with at least one per floor. The JFB inspector will confirm what your building needs — we can do a site visit and give you a quote.
Common questions
- Is one ABC extinguisher enough for a small shop?
- Often, yes, for a single small room — but the exact number depends on floor size, layout and what you store. Ask us for a site check.
- Can I use an ABC extinguisher on a deep fryer fire?
- It is not recommended. Cooking-oil fires need a wet chemical extinguisher or a kitchen suppression system.
Need help choosing or booking?
Call us on 876-857-7584 or get started online.