Wet Chemical Fire Extinguisher

Tackle cooking fires with ease

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Expert yellow band fire extinguisher supplier

Identified by their yellow band, wet chemical extinguishers can tackle Class A, B, and F fires. Their ability to tackle Class F fires – fires caused by cooking oils and fats – is something that’s unique to this particular type of extinguisher, which is why you will often find them used in commercial restaurants and kitchens. However, not all wet chemical fire extinguishers can deal with Class B fires, which is why you should check the front label of the extinguisher or call your provider if you’re unsure.

Where other fire extinguishers’ contents would simply evaporate when faced with a cooking fire, the wet chemical solution contained within a wet chemical fire extinguisher is able to maintain its structure, cool the fire, and starve it of oxygen. Utilising an extended lance and hose to direct the extinguishing media prevents the cooking oil from splashing and spreading when applied.

Wet chemical fire extinguishers in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Midlothian, and beyond

At Asco, we’re backed by the LS Fire Group and we’re a BAFE SP-101-certified company that supplies wet chemical fire extinguishers to all kinds of commercial customers throughout Scotland including Aberdeen, Glasgow, Duns, Forfar, Edinburgh, and Midlothian, as well as throughout the UK with the help of our partner brands. We’re one of the leading fire extinguisher suppliers in the region, so you can rely on our extinguishers to be:

Compliant with EN3-7
BSI Kitemarked with our unique KM number
Filled with high-quality additives for superior fire ratings
Recycled at the end of their lifespan

If you would like to learn more about the wet chemical extinguisher installation and maintenance services that we offer, or the unit siting service that we provide in accordance with BS 5306-8, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team today.

Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers FAQs

How does a wet chemical fire extinguisher work and why is it effective?: A wet chemical fire extinguisher contains a potassium-based solution which, upon deployment, interacts with burning fats or oils to create a soapy (or soapy-like) layer over the surface. This insulating layer cools the fuel and excludes oxygen, which helps prevent the fire from reigniting. Unlike water or foam, which would evaporate or splash burning oils and exacerbate the fire, wet chemical agents act gently and safely on intense cooking oil fires, making them uniquely suited for commercial kitchens. If you’d like a demonstration or further explanation of how these extinguishers operate, ASCO would be happy to provide guidance or on-site training.
What is meant by a “yellow band fire extinguisher”?: A yellow band fire extinguisher, commonly known as a wet chemical fire extinguisher, is specially designed to suppress fires involving cooking oils and fats (Class F fires). At ASCO, we refer to these units as wet chemical extinguishers, and their distinctive yellow band identifies their unique chemical composition and application. While the body of the extinguisher remains red for visibility (per British Standard EN3 requirements), the yellow band or panel indicates that its contents are a potassium-based wet chemical agent suited for challenging kitchen fires. If you are unsure whether your facility requires a yellow band / wet chemical unit, contact ASCO and our fire safety experts will assess your needs.
Which fire classes can a wet chemical fire extinguisher be used on?: The primary purpose of a wet chemical fire extinguisher is to tackle Class F fires, that is, fires involving cooking oils and fats. In many cases, these extinguishers are also rated for Class A fires (solid combustibles such as wood, paper or textiles). Some models may have additional ratings, but not all wet chemical extinguishers are suitable for Class B (flammable liquids) fires, so the unit’s label should always be checked. If you are unsure whether your wet chemical extinguisher covers the correct fire classes for your kitchen or cooking facility, contact ASCO for help verifying compliance.
Why are wet chemical fire extinguishers recommended in kitchens and cooking areas?: Kitchens and cooking environments pose a unique risk due to the presence of hot oils and fats, which can ignite at high temperatures and behave unpredictably. A regular water or foam extinguisher would either evaporate instantly or cause the burning oil to splash, spreading the fire. Wet chemical extinguishers, however, are formulated to work safely in this context, extinguishing the fire and preventing re-ignition. That is why the wet chemical extinguisher is considered a vital piece of equipment in commercial kitchens, restaurants, canteens and other food preparation areas. If your facility lacks a wet chemical unit or you’re unsure of your fire protection setup, reach out to ASCO to ensure your kitchen is equipped correctly.
Do you supply and maintain wet chemical (yellow band) extinguishers?: ASCO is a supplier and servicing partner for wet chemical extinguishers (recognisable by their yellow band). We ensure all units we supply are compliant with EN3-7, BSI Kitemarked, and suitable for commercial kitchen environments. We also provide full maintenance and servicing programs to keep these extinguishers operational and compliant. Regular inspection and servicing are essential, wet chemical units must be maintained just like any other extinguisher to ensure their readiness. If you would like to place an order, arrange a site survey, or schedule maintenance for your wet chemical fire extinguishers, contact ASCO today and our fire safety team will assist you.