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As part of a fire extinguisher’s classification, the numbers on the label can mean either: The numbers preceding the letters on the label indicate just how much fire the extinguishing agent-the powder, gas, or other fire-fighting material–can put out. For example, an extinguisher marked “1 A:1 B: C” could extinguish Class A, Class B, and Class C fires-if it’s big enough to tackle the blaze.
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The letters on a fire extinguisher’s label indicate which classes of fire it can effectively fight. For example, using a CO2 or water extinguisher on burning metal can have disastrous consequences, as the video below shows: These classes form the backbone of fire extinguisher classifications and the distinctions have important implications for firefighting.
Classes of fire abcd code#
Fire code has a lot to say about choosing and placing extinguishers for just this reason. Using the wrong extinguisher can make a fire significantly worse. A sequence of fire extinguisher numbers and letters can save your life-or endanger it
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