USCG Basic Damage Control Practice Exam

The weight and discharge time for an Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) portable extinguisher is typically around 28 pounds with a discharge time of 55 to 65 seconds. This means that when the extinguisher is activated, it can effectively release its contents over this time frame, providing adequate coverage necessary to combat flammable liquid fires, which is what AFFF is designed to address. The weight of the extinguisher is significant in determining how portable and manageable it is for personnel during an emergency, and its discharge time is crucial for ensuring a sufficient application of foam to suppress a fire effectively.

Understanding these specifications is vital not just for operational awareness but also for training and ensuring proper use during fire emergencies. AFFF extinguishers are preferred in certain applications due to their ability to form a film on the surface of flammable liquids, helping to suppress vapors and create a barrier from oxygen, which is essential for extinguishing fires.