Fire Extinguisher: Types of Extinguishers

In most situations an ABC fire extinguisher puts the fire out and should be readily available in multi-family/retail areas. Just make sure you don't use it around oxidizers like chlorine. Stick with a water type fire extinguisher for oxidizers and pool equipment room fires.

So, to break down the chart: Water type fire extinguishers are good to use on paper, wood, and plastic (also around oxidizer like pool cleaning equipment). Foam type fire extinguishers are good to use on paper, wood, plastic and Flammable and combustible liquids. CO2 fire extinguishers are good to use on flammable and combustible liquids and electrical equipment. Finally, dry chemical (or ABC) fire extinguishers are good to use on all of the above. Again, avoid oxidizers with the extinguisher.