Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers

You need help? What can Wet Chemical Extinguishers be used on?

Put Out Kitchen Fire Fast with the UK’s Best Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers!

Wet chemical fire extinguishers are generally used for Class F fires and are highly effective against cooking oils, such as animal fats and vegetable oils. Wet chemical fire extinguishers are specifically equipped with a number of features designed to address the unique properties of cooking oil fires which present a distinct risk.

For this reason, it is essential that all commercial and industrial kitchens have access to a wet chemical fire extinguisher, particularly those using a deep fat fryer. Although not generally rated for use on Class B fires, such as those involving petrol, certain extinguishers are suitable for use on Class A, B, and F rated fires.

What are Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers For?

When extinguishing cooking oil fires, it is crucial to use the right type of fire extinguisher as foam, powder, CO2 or water-based extinguishers will aggravate burning oils and even run the risk of causing them to spread. As such, wet chemical fire extinguishers are commonly found in commercial kitchens, or even in a home setting with small fryers. Fire blankets are also an excellent piece of fire safety equipment to have in the kitchen.

How do Wet Chemical Extinguishers Work?

Most wet chemical extinguishers work by spraying a fine mist containing a solution of, typically, potassium salts. This solution is sprayed from the nozzle in a fine mist which reacts with the burning fats and produces a layer of foamy soap on top of the burning substance, a process known as saponification. This soapy solution deprives the fire of oxygen and quickly produces a cooling effect, which is crucial as cooking oil fires tend to reignite at high temperatures. The fine mist produced by the extinguishers is a much gentler application than other extinguisher types which lessens the risk of the burning oils splashing while ensuring total coverage of the affected area. As cooking oil tends to spit when alight, wet chemical fire extinguishers are generally equipped with a long, rigid nozzle, which allows the user to safely apply the extinguishing agent from a distance.

When using wet chemical fire extinguishers, users should be careful to ensure the area is well ventilated. This is because toxic fumes may be produced which are harmful if inhaled.

All fire extinguishers require a basic inspection at least once a year, which should involve checking their weight and pressure, as well as looking for any signs of corrosion or other external damage. Wet chemical fire extinguishers specifically require an additional, more detailed examination which should involve a discharge and recharge test. Records of extinguisher inspections should be securely stored and readily available nearby if needed.

Generally, wet chemical fire extinguishers will be identified by a yellow coloured label stating, ‘Wet Chemical’ in large font. They will also be readily distinguishable from other types due to their large capacity and long, rigid hose and nozzle.

Using a Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher

When using a wet fire chemical extinguisher, users should first ensure that the source of the heat is turned off. Having done so, the user should then remove the safety pin and point the nozzle in the direction of the fire, maintaining a safe distance of at least one metre. The contents of the extinguishers should be applied using a slow circular motion around the affected area, trying to cover as much of the burning surface area as possible. Users should aim for total coverage, emptying the entire contents of the extinguisher to prevent reignition or spreading. See our full range of Fire Extinguisher Storage & Accessories for all of your extinguisher display and storage needs.

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