What do the A, B, and C, as well as the numbers, mean on portable fire extinguishers?
The letters indicate the type of fire for which the extinguisher is designed to be used. An ‘A’ extinguisher can be used on normal combustibles such as paper, wood and cardboard, etc. A’B’ extinguisher is for flammable liquids, such as grease or gasoline. A ‘C’ stands for energized electrical. Many extinguishers will have multiple ratings such as ABC or BC. The numbers designate the size of a fire that the extinguisher can put out. Examples include a 2A10BC or a 40BC extinguisher. Read the instruction label found on the front of portable fire extinguishers in your building or business to become familiar with their operation and ratings.
