Community extinguisher awareness day
A free public event bringing together theory, demonstration, and hands-on practice. Learn which extinguisher to use on which fire, watch a live fire demonstration, and understand the fight-or-flee decision — all in one afternoon. Open to all; practical sessions for adults only.
Day schedule
Full programme for 6 December
Why extinguisher knowledge matters
Using the wrong type of extinguisher on a fire can make it dramatically worse. Water on an electrical fire can cause electrocution. Water or foam on a chip-pan fire can cause a fireball. CO2 on a Class A (solid material) fire provides minimal lasting benefit. Yet many people who own or work near extinguishers have never been shown how to identify which type they have or what it is rated for.
This event is designed to close that gap for everyone — not just trained professionals. Our fire classes glossary covers the full classification system (US and UK/EN) and is a useful reference before you arrive. You can also use the extinguisher finder tool to identify the right type for your specific situation.
The fight-or-flee decision
Even with the correct extinguisher, using it is not always the right choice. Our fight-or-flee guide sets out the five conditions that should all be met before you attempt to use an extinguisher: the fire is small, you have a clear exit, you have the right extinguisher, you know how to use it, and you have already raised the alarm. The session on 6 December will cover these conditions in depth with real-world examples.
Prepare before you arrive
Review the fire classes glossary and try the extinguisher finder tool before attending — it will help you get more from the practical session. Reading our fight or flee guide is also recommended.
Extinguisher standards: NFPA 10 (US) · BS EN 3 (UK/EU) · NFPA fire classification
Event FAQ
Questions about the extinguisher awareness day
Both options are available. The practical demonstration and hands-on element are in-person only (Birmingham venue). The theory session — extinguisher types, fire classes, and when not to use an extinguisher — is streamed live and recorded. If you join online, you will receive the same reference materials as in-person attendees and can ask questions via the live chat. The recording will be available within 48 hours for all registered participants.
We will cover all five main portable extinguisher types in use in the UK: water, foam, CO2, dry powder, and wet chemical. For each type we will explain: the fire classes it is rated for, how it works, correct operation technique, and critical situations where it must not be used (for example, CO2 near children or in confined spaces; dry powder on electrical equipment in occupied rooms). The extinguisher finder tool on this site is a useful reference to consult before and after the session.
An extinguisher should only be used when: the fire is small and contained (no larger than a waste bin), you have a clear escape route behind you, you have the correct extinguisher type for the fire class, and you have been trained or briefed in its use. If the fire has spread beyond a single item, if there is thick smoke, if the fire involves structural elements, or if you feel unsafe — leave immediately. Do not delay evacuation to fight a fire. Our fight or flee guide covers this decision in detail.
The theory stream and online component are suitable for teenagers aged 14 and above with an interest in fire safety. The live fire demonstration area is restricted to adults (18+) due to health and safety requirements. Children aged 14–17 attending in person with a guardian may observe from the designated viewing area but may not participate in the practical exercises. Please notify us when registering if you are bringing a young person.
A digital certificate of attendance will be issued to all participants who attend the full session (either in-person or online). The certificate is suitable for CPD records. It is not a formal fire safety qualification, but documents hours and content for professional development portfolios. In-person participants who complete the practical element will receive a separate note on their certificate reflecting hands-on participation.