A fire extinguisher is the first line of defense against an incipient fire – in homes, offices, warehouses, shops and manufacturing facilities. If you are looking for reliable fire extinguishers from a manufacturer, it is important to know which type is suitable for your risk, where it is placed and how it is maintained to work at the critical moment.
Fire Technics Ltd. (FireBG)
What is a fire extinguisher
A fire extinguisher is a portable fire-fighting device that releases a fire extinguishing agent under pressure to extinguish an incipient fire. Extinguishing is achieved by cooling, asphyxiation (isolation of oxygen) or chemical interruption of the combustion reaction.
Most importantly: a fire extinguisher is intended for the early phase of a fire. In case of heavy smoke, widespread fire or risk to people, the priority is evacuation and signaling 112.
More detailed information can be found here:
General device of fire extinguishers and principle of operation
Who created the fire extinguisher - history and development
The history of fire extinguishers begins at the beginning of the 19th century. The creator of the first fire extinguisher in the world is considered to be Mr. George William Manby - a British military man and inventor.
In 1818, Manby developed the first portable fire extinguishing device, which was a copper vessel filled with a solution of potassium carbonate (potash). When activated, the device ejects the solution under pressure directly onto the flames, interrupting the combustion process.
This invention laid the foundations for modern fire extinguishers, which today use various extinguishing agents - powder, carbon dioxide (CO₂), water, foam and specialized compositions depending on the type of fire and risk.
With the development of industry and safety standards, fire extinguishers have become a mandatory element for the protection of people, buildings and property. That is why choosing certified fire extinguishers from a manufacturer is key to real fire safety.
Fire classes and how to choose the right type
Different materials burn differently. Therefore, fire extinguishers are selected according to the class of fire. Here is a practical orientation:
| Fire class | Examples | Suitable type of fire extinguisher |
|---|---|---|
| A | wood, paper, textiles, plastics | powder ABC, water/foam (when permissible) |
| B | gasoline, solvents, paints, oils | powder ABC/BC, CO₂ (for small fires/equipment) |
| C | gases (propane-butane, etc.) | dust (after source shutdown/control) |
| D | magnesium, sodium, metal powders | specialized for metals (D) |
| F | fats and oils in kitchens/fryer | specialized for kitchens (F) |
If your facility has electrical panels, servers or machines, a CO₂ fire extinguisher is often needed, and for kitchens – type F. For universal protection, powder ABC is often used.
Fire classes
Main types of fire extinguishers
Powder fire extinguishers (ABC / BC)
Most common due to their wide application. Suitable for many situations – warehouses, offices, retail spaces, cars and production premises. The powder interrupts the combustion reaction and “smothers” the flame.
CO₂ fire extinguishers (carbon dioxide)
Preferred for electrical equipment, server rooms and panels, because they do not leave a residue on the equipment. They require proper use and attention in small spaces.
Water and water foam fire extinguishers
Suitable mainly for class A (solid materials). They are not used in active electrical installations, unless the specific model/mode does not allow it by specification.
Specialized fire extinguishers
For specific risks: metals (D), professional kitchens (F), industrial processes and other applications. For special risks, it is best to select after inspection/risk assessment.
Legal requirements for fire extinguishers according to the type of facility
The type, number and purpose of fire extinguishers are not determined by choice, but are regulated in the current Bulgarian fire safety legislation. They depend on the functional purpose of the facility, its area, fire hazard and possible classes of fires.
The minimum requirements for equipment with fire extinguishers are described in detail in Appendix No. 2 to the Fire Safety Regulation, which lists specific facilities - administrative buildings, offices, commercial and public facilities, production premises, warehouses, garages, parking lots, restaurants, hotels and others.
The table contains information about:
minimum number of fire extinguishers
type of fire extinguisher (powder, carbon dioxide, water, etc.)
class of fire (A, B, C, D, F)
area to which the requirements apply
The full table with all legal requirements for fire extinguishers according to the type of site can be viewed and downloaded here:
Table - Legal requirements for fire extinguishers by type of site (Annex No. 2 to the Regulation)
Note: The requirements specified in the table are minimum. The final number and type of fire extinguishers are determined after a fire risk assessment and according to the specific conditions of the site.
Where to place fire extinguishers
Proper placement is as important as the choice of type. Best practices:
in a visible and easily accessible place, close to exits and evacuation routes
without being blocked by doors, shelves or furniture
near typical risk points (electrical panels, kitchens, storage areas)
with clear markings and free access
Explore our fire extinguishers and choose the appropriate model according to the risk.
How to use a fire extinguisher correctly
Easy practical sequence:
Ensure an exit behind you (so as not to "lock" yourself into the fire).
Remove the fuse/seal and remove the pin.
Direct the jet towards the base of the flame, not the top.
Extinguish with smooth "left-right" movements until completely extinguished.
Monitor for re-ignition and signal if necessary.
Maintenance, inspections and shelf life
To have real protection, the fire extinguisher must be upright and serviced. The frequency and procedures depend on the type and requirements of the specific facility, but the general principle is: regular inspections + servicing by a competent company.
At what intervals is the servicing carried out
The fire extinguishers in the facility must be inspected once a month according to the requirements of Art. 21. (1) (Amended - SG, issue 37 of 2021, effective 01.09.2021) of Ordinance No. 8121z-647 of October 1, 2014 on the rules and standards for fire safety during the operation of facilities (amended SG, issue 50 of June 20, 2025), the control of portable and mobile fire extinguishers is carried out by the owner (manager) of the facility or by the persons responsible for fire safety by carrying out periodic inspections in compliance with the requirements under item 4.2 of SD ISO/TS 11602-2:2015 "Fire protection. Portable and mobile fire extinguishers. Part 2: Control and maintenance". It is checked whether the fire extinguisher meets the following conditions:
1. (amended - SG, issue 43 of 2025, effective 29.06.2025) is installed/placed in accordance with the requirements of Art. 23, para. 2;
2. access to it is unobstructed;
3. its operating instructions are legible;
4. the safety device to prevent unintentional activation and the seals are not damaged or missing;
5. it is full (by weighing or lifting);
6. it is not visibly damaged, corroded, leaking or with a clogged nozzle;
7. the reading of the pressure gauge or indicator (where available) is within the operating range or position.
Once a year, annual maintenance, recharge and/or hydrostatic testing of fire extinguishers is carried out according to ISO/TS 11602-2:2015 "Fire protection. Portable and mobile fire extinguishers. Part 2: Inspection and maintenance".
In practice, maintenance includes: visual inspection, pressure control, inspection of valves/hoses, seals, plates, as well as recharge/repair if necessary. If you need a service, visit our fire extinguisher service page.
Important: if the housing is corroded, there are mechanical deformations or there is no clarity about the origin/condition, the fire extinguisher may be risky and it is better to have it assessed by a specialist.
Common mistakes when choosing a fire extinguisher
You buy "what is available", without taking into account the fire class and specific risks.
The fire extinguisher is placed "somewhere in the warehouse" and becomes inaccessible.
Regular inspections are missing – the device has lost pressure or is damaged.
An inappropriate type is used for grease/electricity/metals.
How FireBG strengthens security – production, delivery and professional support
When it comes to fire protection, the most important thing is reliability. That is why many companies and facilities choose fire extinguishers from Požarna Tehnika OOD because of a combined approach: correct selection, clear marking, service support and risk-based consultation.
Check out our product solutions here: fire extinguisher catalog.
FAQ – All
Important things about fire extinguishers
Which type of fire extinguisher is the most versatile?
In many facilities, the most versatile is the ABC powder type because it covers a wide range of fires (A, B and often C). CO₂ is often added for electronics and switchboards, and type F for kitchens.
How often should a fire extinguisher be checked?
Regular periodic checks and servicing are recommended according to the requirements of the facility and the appliance manufacturer. The safest approach is to have a maintenance plan and work with a service center.
Where should I place the fire extinguisher at home/in the office?
In a visible place, near an exit, so that it is accessible in seconds. In offices – in common areas and areas with equipment. In warehouses – near entrances/exits and risk points.
Can I use a water fire extinguisher for electricity?
As a rule, no. For electrical installations, appropriate types are used (e.g. CO₂ or powder, depending on the situation and specification).
What document is provided after annual maintenance of fire extinguishers?
After annual maintenance, recharging and/or hydrostatic testing, the client is provided with Appendix 9 of Regulation No. 8121z-531 of the Ministry of Interior.
Who is entitled to service fire extinguishers?
Technical maintenance, recharging and/or hydrostatic testing can only be performed by companies that have a permit from the Ministry of Interior and possess the relevant equipment according to the list in Regulation No. 8121z-531 of the Ministry of Interior.
Are fire extinguishers mandatory?
Yes. In Bulgaria, they are mandatory in most public and industrial buildings according to Appendix 2 of Regulation No. 1971 of the Ministry of Interior.
How many years is the service life of fire extinguishers?
The average service life of a fire extinguisher is about 15 years, but it depends on the manufacturer's instructions and the condition of the housing.
When is a fire extinguisher scrapped?
The fire extinguisher is discarded when
the housing is corroded
has mechanical damage
does not withstand hydrostatic testing
the maximum service life has expired
If you want to make the right choice and enhance fire safety at your facility, see our fire extinguishers or contact the FireBG team for consultation and support.