Question:
I was about to order some fire extinguishers from Screwfix, then noticed that two 1-kg units would be cheaper than a single 2-kg unit. This got me thinking about what I'm actually trying to achieve, and whether it would be better to have several smaller ones dotted around, or fewer larger ones. Advantages of several small ones I can see are: - If ones faulty there'll be another to hand - If someone else is around we can double the rate of application - Less cost if a single small one copes (not particulaly important, but handy) - They can be spread out, increasing the chances of an extinguisher being to hand - More compact, which suits our nook-less, cranny-less house Advantages of a large one: - Fire might be larger than a small one can cope with - Errm, that was it Can anyone point me towards info on whether fire extinguishers are effictive in the home, and if so what types? I noticed that the Neighourhood Watch stuff on the HO website talks about evacuation, not tackling fires.

Answer: Q: Can anyone point me towards info on whether fire extinguishers are effictive in the home, and if so what types?

A: I think there is a serving Fire Officer in this group, if there is no doubt he'll be along soon. Unless you know what your doing with an extinguisher and have the right type for the fire your just going to waste time that could otherwise be used to get out yourself and everyone else out. Certainly unless you happen to be in the room when it starts, it'll be generating so much smoke that you won't want to hang about and of course if it's been going a while but run out of oxygen when you open the door the in rush of fresh air (oxygen) can be quite dramatic... Q: I noticed that the Neighourhood Watch stuff on the HO website talks about evacuation, not tackling fires.

A: About the only fire I'd think about tackling is a *very* new one or chip/grill pan. The pan lid or damp (not dripping!) tea towel is very effective. From the back of a fire engine. "If you discover a fire, GET OUT, STAY OUT, GET US OUT".