An evaluation of the role of fire extinguishers

To avoid injury
153. The disparity between government/professional policy and the public in relation to injuries has
already been outlined. It is reiterated that avoidance of an injury (minor) in most dwelling/HMO
fires is not a key driver for the public, even in retrospect when asked if they would do anything
differently. Despite this, there are frequent references in the various guides to this being an aim
that extinguishers can facilitate. The removal or non-provision of extinguishers in HMOs may even
increase the risk of injury to the public. This results from increased time to source a means of
fighting the fire and the risk of using improvised rather than purpose-designed equipment.
154. There is also a wider cost/benefit dimension. In exposing themselves to the low likelihood of a
minor injury, the fire extinguisher user is likely to extinguish or potentially delay the fire
development. In doing so, they may reduce the subsequent risk to many others including
professional responders. Thus, the risk exposure is moderate and tolerable in relation to the
benefit achievable, including avoiding a higher risk to greater numbers of people.
A default position of ‘do not trust the public’
155. The view regarding the general public’s capability is to some extent ambiguous and conflicting in
the various documents. Overall, it tends towards a default position of not trusting them to use
extinguishers, with many publications specifically stating this as a reason not to install them.
156. It is not clear what the origin or continued justification is for this distrust of the public’s capability.
Studies consistently demonstrate this view to be incorrect. No information was found (or provided
in response to enquiries made) of the specific evidence base used to justify the advice that it is
unsafe for untrained members of the public to use extinguishers. Whilst sources were limited, the
available survey data and literature overwhelmingly identified the opposite to be true. They are
used safely and effectively by ordinary and untrained members of the public in ways beyond those
anticipated by legislation and guidance. If evidence to the contrary exists, it should be made
available or transparent in the appropriate bibliographies. Otherwise, this guidance, wherever it
appears, must be urgently reviewed and aligned with the evidence as it has the potential to do
harm if perpetuated without sound justification. It clearly conflicts with the public will, need and
right to choose for themselves.
Selection and provision of extinguishers
157. Occupiers of single private dwellings are of course free to choose what, if any, fire safety measures
they adopt. But for residents in an HMO, the common areas will be subject to fire safety
legislation, and through a risk assessment, a decision will be made by third parties whether to
provide fire extinguishers in these spaces.
158. Different types (or classes) of fire require the use of an appropriate extinguishing medium. As a
result, a range of extinguishers are available to choose from. In most cases, the appropriate
provision of extinguishers (e.g. type, number and location) for a specific premises will usually result
from professional advice or a risk assessment incorporating a blend of advisory criteria
and local circumstances.
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