Everything You Need to Know About Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers in 2025 (Updated)

The Ultimate Guide to Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers

What wet chemical fire extinguishers are used for?

Wet Chemical Extinguishers are filled with a potassium solution that suffocates the fire and eliminates heat. They prevent re-ignition by forming a barrier between the oxygen and fuel components. These extinguishers are most effective on Class A and Class F fires, which involve materials like wood, paper, and cooking oils.

Wet chemical fire extinguishers are commonly used for fires involving cooking oils and fats, such as in commercial kitchens. They operate by spraying a fine mist of potassium acetate, potassium carbonate, or a similar agent onto the burning oil or fat. This mist cools the fire and creates a foam layer that blocks oxygen from reaching the burning oil, thereby extinguishing the fire.

Where to Use Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers?

If you run a restaurant, café, fast food outlet, or any food-related business, you're likely aware that kitchen cooking is the leading cause of fires in these establishments.

A wet chemical fire extinguisher is the only safe option for fires involving grease, cooking oil, and fryers. This type of extinguisher includes a specialised long applicator designed to apply a cooling layer of extinguishing agent over the burning oil. To manage the fire, remove the safety pin, direct the nozzle at the base of the flames, gently squeeze the lever, and sweep from side to side to fully extinguish the fire.

7L Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher

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How can you recognise a wet chemical fire extinguisher?

Wet chemical fire extinguishers are recognisable by their red cylinder with a yellow band around the top, indicating the extinguishing agent inside. These extinguishers are commonly used in kitchens to extinguish Class F fires involving cooking oils and fats. Besides the label, wet chemical extinguishers generally feature a distinctive nozzle or spray head designed to disperse the extinguishing agent as a fine mist or spray.

It is crucial to remember that wet chemical extinguishers should only be used on Class F fires and are not suitable for other types of fires, such as electrical fires or fires involving flammable liquids. If you are uncertain about which fire extinguisher to use, evacuate the area and contact the fire department for help.

How to use a Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher?

Just remember the word PASS. It stands for the following:

P – This stands for pulling the pin off the top of the device. Pulling the pin is a way to unlock the device.

A – This stands for aiming at the base of the flame. Before releasing its content, point the nozzle at the source of the fire. Aiming at the flame will not stop the fire.

S – The first S stands for a squeeze. Squeeze the handle to release the content of the extinguisher.

S – The second S is for the sweeping motion. While squeezing the lever to release, do a sweeping motion. This is necessary to put out the fire from its base.

Every adult at home should be familiar with how to use the tool. At work, you can arrange for someone to provide fire safety training. This includes instructing employees on how to operate the extinguisher.

Knowing how to properly use the Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher is crucial, as it helps effectively put out the flames. You should only try to extinguish a fire if it is still small and not spreading. Ensure you have a clear path to a fire exit so you can escape if the situation becomes uncontrollable. If these conditions are not met, you should immediately leave the premises and contact the fire brigade once you are safely outside.

Fire Products Direct 2l and 7l Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers comply with Australian Standard AS 1841.3 and are available for your office building, commercial premises, warehouse environment, or home.

This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional advice. It is not customised for any individual's specific situation. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalised guidance.