Extinguishing fires

This is an overview of the fire-fighting demonstration session we had today.

5 types of fires:-
A - ordinary household fire
B - oil, petrol, diesel fire
C - gas fire
D - metal fire (sodium, phosphorous)
E - electrical fire

4 types of fire extinguishers:-
1. water - used for household fires. Once opened, will need to go for re-filling before using again.
2. carbon-dioxide - can be used for all types of fires, generally recommended. Re-usable until exhausted. Just open/close the tap as needed. Remember that the hose will get cold and don't let the noise scare you.
3. dry powder - useful for household fires and open fires. Will last only for 5-6 seconds, so aim well before firing.
4. foam - useful for household fires and open fires. Will last for a minute or so.

The session was refreshing. But will I be able to put it to good use when the time comes? Only time will tell.