Fire extinguishers are indispensable tools for safeguarding lives, property, and ensuring legal compliance. Yet, a lingering concern among many is whether these lifesaving devices harbor toxic elements. While mishandling a fire extinguisher can pose risks, certain types do contain chemicals that could be harmful if not deployed correctly during emergencies. Hence, a nuanced understanding of fire extinguishers and their contents is paramount for upholding fire safety standards and saving lives.

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Let’s delve into the toxicity of each fire extinguisher type

Water Fire Extinguishers Are They Toxic? Water fire extinguishers, though non-toxic, propel a highly pressurised spray that could cause physical harm if aimed directly at individuals. Widely used for tackling Class A fires involving combustible materials like wood and paper, they find their niche in offices, schools, and various other settings.

Dry Powder Fire Extinguishers Toxic or Not? Dry powder extinguishers boast versatility, suitable for combating Class A, B, C, and electrical fires. However, while non-toxic, the chemicals they contain may induce irritation if inhaled or make contact with the skin and eyes. Consequently, their use in confined spaces is discouraged, relegating them more to outdoor applications.

CO2 Fire Extinguishers Toxicity Concerns Operating by depriving fires of oxygen, CO2 extinguishers effectively address Class B and electrical fires. Though CO2 poisoning is rare, prolonged exposure to high concentrations can be perilous, especially in confined spaces. Adequate ventilation post-use is thus imperative to mitigate risks.

Foam Fire Extinguishers. Addressing Toxicity Frequently deployed in environments susceptible to Class A and B fires, foam extinguishers, while water-based, incorporate chemicals that pose ingestion risks. Proper handling, including wearing goggles and impermeable gloves during cleanup, is advised to prevent exposure.

Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers. Evaluating Toxicity Levels Containing chemicals potentially harmful if ingested, wet chemical extinguishers demand careful usage. Ventilating the area after extinguishing a fire is crucial to disperse any toxic fumes. Primarily deployed in commercial kitchens and restaurants, they effectively combat Class A and F fires.

While fire extinguisher contents are generally non-toxic, ingestion or inhalation may still result in harm. However, when employed correctly and in alignment with specific fire risks, these devices can be lifesaving assets. Ensuring the presence of suitable extinguishers on premises not only saves lives but also ensures regulatory compliance. The choice of extinguisher type hinges on the specific fire hazards inherent to each setting.

To deepen your understanding, explore our comprehensive guides on fire classes and extinguisher applications. Investing in fire safety equips you with the tools to protect lives and property effectively.

Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) is a type of foam used to fight liquid-fueled fires. Fire departments use AFFF to fight liquid-based fires (i.e., those started by oil, gasoline, or other flammable liquids).

AFFF is highly concerning because it contains PFAS PFAS are toxic chemicals known to negatively impact human health and do not easily break down in the environment, waterways, wildlife, or human bodies.

• PFAS are linked to negative health impacts in humans, including cancer.

• AFFF is the leading cause of PFAS contamination in drinking water.

They have been used by the Environment Agency to inform further regulatory work, including a UK REACH Regulatory Management Options Analysis (RMOA) on PFAS produced jointly with the Health and Safety Executive.

This summary relates to information from chemical substance assessments reported in detail in the following outputs:

1. Environmental risk evaluation report: Perfluoropropane [PFP] (CAS no. 76-19-7)

2. Environmental risk evaluation report: Hexafluoropropene [HFP] (CAS no. 116-15-4)

3. Environmental risk evaluation report: Perflunafene [PFD] (CAS no. 206-94-5)

4. Environmental risk evaluation report: Perfluoroisohexane [PFiHx] (CAS no. 355-04-4)

5. Environmental risk evaluation report: Trideca-1,1,1,2,2,3,3,4,4,5,5,6,6-fluorohexane [1H-PFHx] (CAS no. 355-37-3)

6. Environmental risk evaluation report: 1,1,1,2,2,3,3-Heptafluoro-3-[(trifluorovinyl)oxy]propane [PPVE] (CAS no. 1623-05-8)

7. Environmental risk evaluation report: 3,3,4,4,5,5,6,6,6-Nonafluorohexene [Perfluorobutylethylene; PFBE] (CAS no. 19430-93-4)

8. Environmental risk evaluation report: Perfluoro(2-ethoxy-2-fluoroethoxy)-acetic acid, ammonium salt [EEA-NH4] (CAS no. 908020-52-0)

9. Environmental risk evaluation report: Potassium 9-chlorohexadecafluoro-3-oxanonane-1-sulfonate [F-53B] (CAS no. 73606-19-6)

These reports were written by the Environment Agency’s Chief Scientist’s Group, which provides scientific knowledge, tools and techniques to enable us to protect and manage the environment as effectively as possible.

Enquiries: research@environment-agency.gov.uk.