When people think about fire safety in London, they often imagine alarms and sprinklers. But fire extinguishers are one of the first tools used when a small fire starts. Whether you run a café near Brick Lane, own a flat near Tower Bridge, or manage a warehouse in Stratford, having the right type of extinguisher nearby can save lives and protect property.
At Astoria | Fire Alarm Installation & Maintenance London, we help residents and businesses understand not just why fire extinguishers are important, but how to keep them ready and working. Fire does not wait for a plan. It demands action.
What Are Fire Extinguishers Used For?
A fire extinguisher is designed to put out or control small fires before they spread. In most emergencies, time is short. These tools help stop flames quickly without needing the fire brigade right away.
Different types of fires need different types of extinguishers. A fire caused by oil in a kitchen needs a different extinguisher than one caused by an electric fault. Many homes and workplaces in London only have one kind, often not the right one.
So if you run a workshop in Hackney or a restaurant in Shoreditch, you should ask: Is my extinguisher the correct type for the risk in my space?
Types of Fire Extinguishers and Their Uses
There are five main types of fire extinguishers, each for different fire sources:
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Water extinguishers: Best for paper, wood, and cloth fires.
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Foam extinguishers: Used for liquids like petrol or paint.
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CO2 extinguishers: Effective for electrical fires, often used in server rooms or offices in Canary Wharf.
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Powder extinguishers: Work on most types of fires, often used in vehicles and outdoor areas.
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Wet chemical extinguishers: Specifically for cooking oils and fats. Essential in commercial kitchens near places like Borough Market.
Using the wrong type can make the fire worse. That is why training and proper selection matter.
Why Regular Maintenance Matters
Just installing a fire extinguisher is not enough. Regular checks ensure they work when needed. Pressure may drop. Hoses may crack. A missing pin could make it unusable during an emergency.
This is where Maintenance and Call Outs in London become important. Many businesses across London forget to schedule inspections until something goes wrong. Do not let that be your story. If you run a salon in Camden or an office in Southwark, you must check your fire safety equipment at least once a year.
At Astoria | Fire Alarm Installation & Maintenance London, we provide full maintenance services across Greater London. We visit your site, inspect every unit, and replace or recharge where required.
Legal Requirements in the United Kingdom
The UK Fire Safety Order 2005 requires businesses to take responsibility for fire safety. That includes having the right fire extinguishers installed and making sure they are maintained regularly. Failing to do so can lead to fines or even prosecution.
Landlords with flats in East London or managing agents around King’s Cross should take extra care. Multi-occupancy buildings must have proper fire suppression systems. This includes not only alarms but extinguishers placed at easy-to-reach locations.
Common Mistakes People in London Make
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Using expired extinguishers: These might not work when you need them.
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Placing extinguishers in hidden spots: They must be visible and accessible.
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Not training staff: Everyone should know how to use one safely.
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Skipping regular checks: Monthly visual checks and yearly servicing are recommended.
People who live in high-rise buildings around Canary Wharf or manage shops in Oxford Street often miss these basics. A fire safety review can help fix these issues fast.
How Astoria Can Help You Stay Fire-Safe
Located at Lock Studios, 7 Corsican Sq, Bow, London E3 3YD, Astoria | Fire Alarm Installation & Maintenance London has served both small homes and large commercial spaces across London.
We work closely with schools, shops, offices, and landlords to make sure fire safety equipment, especially fire extinguishers, is installed correctly and maintained to standard.
We also help with fire alarm systems, emergency lighting, and CCTV Systems, which can be useful in monitoring fire risks and reviewing incidents after they happen.
Our team is experienced, qualified, and available for emergency Maintenance and Call Outs in London. Whether you manage an estate in Whitechapel or a business near Hyde Park, we are here to help you meet safety standards.
Final Thoughts: Do Not Wait for a Fire to Take Action
Fire does not come with a warning. Having the right fire extinguishers, installed and maintained, is your first line of defence. You owe it to your tenants, staff, and loved ones to stay ready.
If you want to upgrade your fire safety plan, including installing fire alarms, setting up a CCTV system, or managing an Access Control System, now is the right time.
Voice Search Optimized FAQs (SEO-Rich)
What type of fire extinguisher is best for home use in London?
For most homes in London, a foam or dry powder extinguisher covers common fires like cloth, wood, and small electrical fires.
How often should fire extinguishers be serviced in the UK?
Fire extinguishers should be serviced once a year by a trained technician and checked monthly for pressure and condition.
Where can I get my fire extinguishers inspected in London?
Astoria | Fire Alarm Installation & Maintenance London offers inspections across East and Central London. We cover Bow, Hackney, Shoreditch, and more.
Do landlords need fire extinguishers in flats?
Yes. If the property is a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), extinguishers are required in shared areas under UK law.
Can I install a fire extinguisher myself?
It is better to let a qualified company install it. They will ensure it is mounted at the correct height and in the right location.
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