Hercules 9L FOAM Extinguisher
This fire extinguisher has passed the 35kV Di-electrical test. It is safe for use on live electrical equipment of up to 1000V at a distance of 1meter. However, it is still possible to be electrocuted from the foam on the floor that is in contact with live electric current. Hence, it is always important to turn off all sources of electricity.
AFFF is a type of Fire fighting foam used for fire suppression. Its role is to cool the fire and to coat the fuel, preventing its contact with oxygen, resulting in suppression of the combustion.
Effective against class A fires involving ordinary combustible materials like wood, paper, cloth, furning, plastics, rubber, etc, usually of an organic nature, in which combustion normally takes places with the formation of glowing embers.
Effective against class B fires involving flammable liquids, solvents, oils, paints, thinner and liquifieable solids. Foam works best on horizontal surface. Being lighter than flammable liquids, it will float to the surface. This starves the fire of oxygen. Very frequently, SCDF uses fire fighting foam to put out flammable liquid fires.
Cleaning up is also considerably easier as compared to powder type fire extinguisher. A simple wash down with water will do.
Where can I use this extinguisher?
Hercules wet chemical fire extinguisher caters for the needs of both small and large kitchens—from small businesses to large commercial and industrial kitchens such as those in hotels, restaurants, and public institutions. Liquid potassium phosphate is used to extinguish grease and cooking oil fires. On contact with the oil, the liquid turns into foam, preventing oxygen from reaching the fire and cooling the area. This agent is safe to use and does not affect kitchen stainless steel surfaces. Equipped with a lance, the operator is able to combat the fire safely from a distance.
What type of fire can I use this extinguisher for?
Class A - Combustible fires such as wood, newspaper, books, tyres, plastics, etc.
Class B - Flammable liquids such as small amounts of paint and cooking oil.
Class C - Gas fires from your cooking gas. Note: Turn off the gas before fighting fire*
Class E - Electric fires. Note: Turn off the electricity before fighting fire*
*A key point to note is that SCDF is educating the public on NOT to directly using fire extinguishers on class E fires. E fires will reignite almost immediately as heat is still being generated. This is why the first step of eliminating a Class E fire is to turn off the source by shutting off the electrical supply. If there is still a fire, the fire is likely to be a class A or B fire which will be much easier to put out as compared to a E fire. This is also why class E logos are no longer permitted on new fire extinguishers.
How to use a fire extinguisher?
Before you use a fire extinguisher, always ensure you have an escape route. If you have to use a fire extinguisher, do so at a safe distance. When in doubt, always choose to run. Even professional fire fighters in full fire resistant suits have been trained to never put their own lives at risk.
Always remember PASS. You can also read the instruction label on the fire extinguisher.
1. Pull out the safety pin
2. Aim at base of fire
3. Squeeze the lever
4. Sweep side to side
Does this Fire Extinguisher expire?
Fire extinguishers do not expire like food. Every 5 years, fire extinguishers are to undergo a full pressure test. In theory, if the fire extinguisher were to undergo a full pressure test every 5 years and assuming it has been kept in a reasonably clean environment, it can last indefinitely. However, this is rare in reality as it is simply more economical to purchase a new piece every 5 years.
As SCDF requires all fire extinguishers to be maintained annually, a one year expiry sticker is affixed to every fire extinguisher that we sell. When the date has lapsed, it does not mean that the fire extinguisher has to be disposed. Instead, simply bring it to us here to service your fire extinguishers and the expiry date can be extended. This rule does not affect fire extinguisher that are for personal use.
