Powder fire extinguishers are the most versatile type of fire extinguishers.  Hence the fact that they are also known as general purpose or all purpose extinguishers.  They are capable of extinguishing flammable solids, flammable liquids, gasses and electrical fires (Classes ABC and electrical fires).

Powder fire extinguishers have many advantages.  They have a fast flame knock down, and are non-toxic.  Powder fire extinguishers are effective against running fuel fires and are mass for mass the most efficient fire fighting instrument.  Powder fire extinguishers have disadvantages so you may want to consider those too when choosing your fire extinguishers especially for kitchens or offices.  They are messy when discharged and can contaminate over a large area. 

Nationwide fire extinguishers sell a range of kitemarked powder fire extinguishers.  Our 1kg and 2kg powder extinguishers are ideal for vehicles, caravans, small kitchens and many other multi risk environments.  Our 4kg, 6kg and 9kg Powder fire extinguishers are especially suited to mixed fire risk environments and are suitable for flammable liquids including methane, propane, hydrogen etc. for the storage of liquid gases and heating oils. It is also a particularly useful extinguisher to have for industry, garages, workshops etc. 

New hazardous goods legislation states that trucks must hold in excess of 12kg of powder.  This can be compiled of any combination of extinguishers but most commonly this is a 9kg powder on the back with two 2kg powder extinguishers, or a 4kg powder in the cab.

You should examine your extinguishers at least monthly for signs of tampering, loss of pressure or discharge.  Your extinguisher should also be maintained at least annually by a qualified technician and these checks should be recorded in your fire log book.  Nationwide fire extinguishers offer the option of an initial service of your new extinguishers. This means your new extinguishers come with an initial service carried out by a trained technician recording the; Date of purchase, full weight of the fire extinguisher, date next service due and date next discharge test due.