Classes of Fire in Singapore
Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF) uses a certain classification for the Classes of Fire that can break out in homes and commercial buildings.
Here, we have compiled the classification of fires for your information.
To ensure that your home or business is well protected, it is recommended to buy fire extinguishers and other types of suitable fire safety equipment.
We sell high quality fire safety equipment in Singapore and we are more than happy to help you with all the needed information and fire safety products to help you ensure the protection of your home or business.
Class A Fires
These fires are caused by combustible materials such as wood, paper, cloth, plastics, rubber and other organic materials.
You can recognize this type of fire by the glowing embers it produces. Water can be used to stop the fire, but it may not be particularly effective.
To extinguish such fires, use AB Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher.
Class B Fires
Class B fires are fires involving flammable liquids and gas. Solvents, thinners, paints, varnishes and other similar materials are also categorized as Class B materials.
To extinguish such fires, use either AB Dry Powder or Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguisher.
CO2 fire extinguishers are most recommended for stopping such fires; their design involves the use of carbon dioxide as a nonflammable gas that replaces all the oxygen sustaining the fire, without causing any damage. Leaving no residue or debris behind, these extinguishers are much recommended but it costs slightly more. Alternatively, ABC Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers also works well but it is harder to clean up.
Class C Fires
These are fires caused by gas. The proper way to extinguisher Class C Fire is to switch off the main gas switch. There is no recognised classification for electrical fires under Singapore Standards 578:2019 clause 4(f).
The materials on flame tend to belong to Class A & B fires which a AB Dry Powder or Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguisher can extinguish.
All fire extinguishers manufactured after May 2013 must not bear Class C logo.
Fire extinguishers made before May 2013 bearing Class C logo does not need to be replaced until there is a new submission for fire plans to SCDF.
Class D Fires
Class D fires involve flammable metals, like potassium, sodium, lithium, zirconium and titanium. Use Class D Fire Extinguishers for such materials.
Class F Fires
These fires involve the use of cooking oil and fats, such as vegetable oils, animal oils, fats, and cooking equipment.
To extinguish such fires, use Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher or you can consider using a Fire Blanket to throw over the fire and extinguish such flames.
Generally, if you want to be able to stop any type of fire, you should always use the appropriate equipment for each class of fire involved.