On what basis are fire extinguishers classified?

Fire extinguishers are classified based on the type of fire they are effective against, which is crucial for ensuring that the appropriate extinguisher is used in a given situation. This classification system helps users select the right extinguisher to combat specific fire hazards. For example, some extinguishers are designed to tackle fires fueled by ordinary combustibles like wood and paper, while others are formulated for flammable liquids or electrical fires. Each class of extinguisher is equipped with extinguishing agents that are effective against those particular types of fires.

In contrast, categorizing extinguishers by their size and weight does not address their effectiveness or safety features in specific fire situations. Color coding might help in identifying different classes of extinguishers, but it is not a direct method of classification in terms of functionality. Lastly, while a manufacturer’s warranty period might inform consumers of the product's reliability and support, it has no bearing on the classification of extinguishers according to their fire-fighting capabilities. Thus, the classification system based on the type of fire ensures both effectiveness and safety in fire suppression efforts.