Class A fire extinguishers target fires generated from wood, paper, and textiles. Class B fire extinguishers can extinguish fires fueled by oil, grease, and other flammable liquids or gases. Class C fire extinguishers work on fires involving live electrical equipment.
ABC fire extinguishers work on all three types of fire and are the best for home use, including the kitchen, not only because they’re more versatile but also because you want to be able to fight a fire even if you don’t know its origin. The wrong type of fire extinguisher can actually make some fires worse.
When shopping for a fire extinguisher, find one that’s been certified by UL Solutions, CSA, FM Approvals, or ETL. These national laboratories ensure that the extinguisher is safe to use and that it puts out the types of fire it says it does.
Read more about fire extinguishers, including tips on how to shop for the best one for you, in our buying guide.
