What does the letter on a fire extinguisher indicate?

The letter on a fire extinguisher is used to indicate the type of fire that the extinguisher is designed to combat. Fire extinguishers are classified based on the categories of fire they can effectively extinguish, such as:

• Class A: For ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and cloth.
• Class B: For flammable liquids such as gasoline and oil.

• Class C: For electrical fires.
• Class D: For flammable metals.
• Class K: For cooking oils and fats.

It is crucial for users to understand the classification represented by the letter on the extinguisher, as using the wrong type of extinguisher can be dangerous and ineffective. For instance, using a water-based extinguisher on an electrical fire can lead to electrocution. Knowing the type ensures that you can choose the right extinguisher for the specific fire hazard present.

The other options relate to aspects of the extinguisher that do not influence its operation but rather its identification or maintenance history. For instance, the brand refers to the manufacturer, relative size indicates capacity rather than fire type, and the last inspection date is important for safety compliance and ensuring functionality when needed.