# How many fire extinguishers do I need?

**URL:** <https://reachback.builtintelligence.com/t/how-many-fire-extinguishers-do-i-need/1177>\
**Category:** General Construction\
**Created:** [13 January 2013 08:02 UTC](https://reachback.builtintelligence.com/t/how-many-fire-extinguishers-do-i-need/1177 "2013-01-13T08:02:38Z")\
**Posts on this page:** 2\
**Page:** 1

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**Author:** ![HSE](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/h/e95f7d/32.png) [@HSE](https://reachback.builtintelligence.com/u/HSE)\
**Post date:** [13 January 2013 08:02 UTC](https://reachback.builtintelligence.com/t/how-many-fire-extinguishers-do-i-need/1177/1 "2013-01-13T08:02:38Z")

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<div class="post-metadata">

**Author:** ![HSE](https://avatars.discourse-cdn.com/v4/letter/h/e95f7d/32.png) [@HSE](https://reachback.builtintelligence.com/u/HSE)\
**Post date:** [25 January 2013 11:16 UTC](https://reachback.builtintelligence.com/t/how-many-fire-extinguishers-do-i-need/1177/2 "2013-01-25T11:16:28Z")

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The number and type of fire extinguishers needed depends on the fire hazard. The fire risk assessment will identify the hazards. The primary purpose of a fire extinguisher is to aid escape from a fire. In some limited circumstances they may be used by a trained person to fight fires in the early stages.

```
The fire extinguisher should be suitable for the potential fire :-

 

	
		
			water
		
			
				For wood/paper/textile and solid material

		
	
	
		
			
				powder

		
		
			
				For liquid and electrical fires

		
	
	
		
			
				foam

		
		
			
				For liquid fires

		
	
	
		
			
				Carbon dioxide

		
		
			
				For liquid and electrical fires

		
	

	Fire extinguishers should be located at identifiable fire points at each storey exit and these should be serviced and maintained.

	Fire extinguishers will also be needed for those carrying out hot work.
```