December 27th, 2008 | 
Author: Have you ever seen a flaming object yet the first thing that comes in you mind is to throw water on it? Did you ever consider other things other than putting out the fire?
It is our reflex to put out fire when we see one, at times when it is burning things accidentally. Since, water is the most available substance used to fight fire; our notion is to dump it on everything that catches fire. It may be effective but it can pose a great risk for yourself if you dump water to almost anything other than organic materials. In some cases, water becomes inappropriately the medium to put out a fire. This can happen in cases where your pan of oil starts to ignite or when your computer suddenly short-circuits and the board suddenly gets on flames. Using water in this instance can be detrimental to you or to your other things that can possible saved despite the accident.
Ideally, you use water to fight fires caused by papers, a pile of garbage, dried leaves, wood and other simple combustible materials. However, since there are different kinds of fire, it would be impractical to buy a device that is good for one device. Since, ordinary materials are not the only cause fire at home, you can opt to purchase multi-rated devices like foam fire extinguisher. There are two types for this device. They can either be mechanical or chemical.
Generally, there are different kinds of extinguisher built for a particular class of fire. However, due to the additives or physical attribute of the substances used, the type of chemicals present makes the multi-rated; meaning it can have a wide coverage. This makes the device more practical for home use of even traveling.
For chemical, the foam in here is made out of sodium bicarbonate and aluminum sulfate. Once these two agents mix, it forms a foam and carbon dioxide that takes form of bubbles. It also uses a stabilizing agent like saponin or liquorices that is used to make the bubbles. This type of extinguisher works by depriving the burning object from oxygen. It also seals the surface: doing this so prevents fire re-igniting. Actually, it works the same like pressurized water the only advantage it has is that it can be used safely to put out fires from combustible liquids like petrol and oil.
For mechanical, a liquid foam compound is used. It combines with water and air and passes through a foam generator in order to build the foam. With its components, it also works by cooling the temperature of the burned items. It also creates a protective later holding the water in and creates resistance from being overpowered by fuels of fire.
These foam fire extinguishers are practical for home use. Just make sure you know how to use them in times of emergency. Its application is the same as the other types. Also one point to note, these two types do not work effectively when used together because it can be harmful to each other.
Having specialized in the foam fire extinguishers trade for over 20 years, Brian now works tirelessly to promote affordable fire safety for home and for business.
Article Source: Foam Fire Extinguisher: Your Practical Fire Fighting Equipment for Home Use
