Consequences of incorrect use of fire extinguishers?

Answer 1

Water extinguishers are designed for class "A" fires which consist of ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, etc. Class "B" fires are flammable liquid fires involving petroleum products such as gasoline. Applying water on a class "B" fire would possibly splatter and spread the burning petroleum. Class "C" fires involve energized electrical equipment and would pose a shock hazard by applying water. Class "D" fires involve combustible metals such as magnesium, titanium, potassium, etc. and can violently react when water is applied. Class "K" fires involve cooking oils and like class "B" fires, could splatter and spread with the use of a water extinguisher.

Answer 2

One of the biggest dangers associated with fire extinguishers comes from using the wrong type of extinguisher to fight a fire. For example, a water extinguisher used on electrical or oil fires can cause electric shock or explosions. A Type B or C carbon dioxide extinguisher used on a chemical fire may cause violent explosions that lead to İnjury or death.

Answer 3

The consequences would be that if you use the incorrect extinguisher on a fire depends on if the extinguisher is specialized or if it's ABC which puts out most types of fires. Specialized ones are not found as frequently but if you DO use the wrong one you can actually make the fire worse. Most people do not know the difference between fires unfortunately. Just do not ever put water on a grease fire, like when cooking, it will not put it out but worsen it!

Answer 4

It makes a mess, someone could get hurt, the fire keeps growing...