Fire extinguishers are designed to tackle specific types of fire. There are six different classes of fire and several different types of fire extinguishers.

Classes of fire
Class A - Fires caused by solid materials, such as wood, paper, or textiles.
Class B - Fires that involve liquid fuels such as petrol, diesel, or oils.
Class C - Fires caused by gases.
Class D - Fires that affect metals.
Class E - fires involving live electrical apparatus.
Class F - Cooking oils such as in deep-fat fryers.

Powder extinguishers are a good multi-purpose fire extinguisher because they can be used on Class A, B and C fires. They can also be used on fires involving electrical equipment however, they do not cool the fire so it can re-ignite.

Fire blankets are primarily for use on hot oil fires such as frying pans or small deep fat fryers. They can also be used on someone whose clothing has caught fire.