Injury hazard type

Burn

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Portable aerosol fire extinguishers are designed to put out a small fire. They are usually hand-held, red in colour and non-refillable, designed to be used once only.

Portable aerosol fire extinguishers are inexpensive, small, and disposable. They are intended for use on small and manageable fires.

Someone holding a portable aerosol fire extinguisher

Risks and injuries from the product

You can suffer serious burns if a fire extinguisher fails to operate when there is a fire.

Incorrect labelling can also lead to the wrong type of fire extinguisher being used for a fire. This can cause a fire to spread and may cause serious burns.

Things to look for when buying the product

People can suffer serious burns if an aerosol fire extinguisher fails.

For this reason, there’s a mandatory standard that suppliers and retailers must comply with. These extinguishers must comply with the portable aerosol fire extinguisher mandatory standard.

  • Always buy and use the correct type of fire extinguisher for the job. 
  • Check the kind of fire/s that the extinguisher can put out. Portable aerosol fire extinguishers must state what type of fire they can be used for.

How to use the product safely

  • Follow the user instructions listed on the fire extinguisher.
  • Only use a fire extinguisher to fight a fire in its early stages. In any case of emergency call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Next steps if a product is unsafe

When buying a product, consumers have the right to expect the product is of acceptable quality. 

Acceptable quality includes that the product is safe, durable and free from defects.

If you bought a product that doesn’t comply with the mandatory standard or is unsafe, you can report it to us.

Report an unsafe product

If a person is seriously injured or needs urgent medical help, call emergency services on Triple Zero (000).

See also

Portable aerosol fire extinguishers mandatory standard

Portable non-aerosol fire extinguishers guide