Why Colour Coding Matters for Fire Safety
When a fire breaks out, every second counts. Knowing which fire extinguisher to use – and when – could save lives and property. That’s why fire extinguishers in the UK are colour-coded according to the type of fire they’re designed to fight.
In this guide, we’ll explain how fire extinguishers are coded by colour, what each one does, and why understanding these codes is essential for homes and businesses in Kent.
🔴 Red Label – Water Extinguishers
Use for: Class A fires (solid combustibles like paper, wood, textiles)
Do not use on: Electrical or flammable liquid fires
Common in: Offices, schools, and retail premises across Maidstone and Sittingbourne
Water extinguishers are effective for everyday materials, but pose an electrocution risk if used on electrical fires.
🟡 Cream Label – Foam Extinguishers
Use for: Class A and B fires (flammable liquids like petrol, paint)
Do not use on: Live electrical equipment
Often found in: Warehouses, garages, and homes with heating oil tanks
Foam extinguishers form a blanket to smother flames and prevent re-ignition, making them a popular choice for mixed-risk environments in Kent.
🔵 Blue Label – Dry Powder Extinguishers
Use for: Class A, B, and C fires (flammable gases like propane)
Do not use in: Enclosed spaces – risk of inhalation and reduced visibility
Ideal for: Industrial units, car parks, and workshops
Dry powder is incredibly versatile, but not suitable for confined indoor spaces. Our Sittingbourne fire safety training includes when and where to use this type safely.
⚫ Black Label – CO₂ Extinguishers
Use for: Electrical fires and Class B fires
Do not use on: Cooking oil fires or in confined spaces
Common in: Server rooms, offices with computer equipment
These extinguishers don’t leave residue, which protects electronics. We often recommend them for businesses handling IT equipment.
🟡 Yellow Label – Wet Chemical Extinguishers
Use for: Class F fires (cooking oils and fats)
Do not use on: Flammable liquids or gases
Perfect for: Commercial kitchens, restaurants, and food trucks
Wet chemical extinguishers cool the fire and chemically react with oils, making them the go-to for kitchens and catering vans.
Why Local Businesses in Kent Need the Right Extinguishers
Fire Tech Systems works with landlords, schools, and business owners across Sittingbourne and Maidstone to ensure the correct extinguishers are installed and maintained.
We often see two key issues:
Incorrect extinguisher types for the property’s fire risks
Lack of staff knowledge on what extinguisher to use
That’s why we offer:
✅ Full site surveys
✅ Supply and certified installation
✅ Fire safety training for your team
✅ Annual servicing and compliance checks
Fire Extinguisher Compliance in Kent: What You Should Know
According to the UK Fire Safety Order 2005, it’s a legal requirement for commercial properties to:
- Have suitable fire-fighting equipment available
- Ensure staff are trained in using it
- Conduct regular fire risk assessments
You can find more on this via Kent Fire & Rescue Service – Business Safety.
Need Help Choosing the Right Fire Extinguishers?
Whether you require fire extinguishers in Sittingbourne or any of the areas we serve within Kent, we will assess your needs and recommend the best extinguishers for full peace of mind. Get in touch to find out more.
📞 Call 0330 055 2228