How long does a water glycol fire extinguisher generally last in use?

A water glycol fire extinguisher is designed for effective use against fires involving flammable liquids, typically classified as Class B fires. The average duration of use for this type of extinguisher is typically around 15 to 30 seconds. This timeframe allows for sufficient discharge of the extinguishing agent to effectively combat the flames and mitigate fire spread.

During this duration, the operator must apply the extinguishing agent in a controlled manner, aiming at the base of the fire to achieve optimal results. The 15 to 30 seconds timeframe is crucial because it provides enough time for the individual to apply the extinguisher effectively while also considering the need for potential evacuation or transition to another firefighting method if the fire cannot be controlled.

Factors that could influence the actual duration of effectiveness include the specific model of the extinguisher, its capacity, and the intensity of the fire being fought. However, on average and under typical conditions, this range accurately reflects how long the extinguisher can be actively used before it is depleted.