Types of Fires

Fires are categorized into different classes based on the type of combustible material involved and the conditions under which they occur. These classifications help determine the most effective method to extinguish them.

Class A
Fires involving common solid combustibles such as paper, wood, fabric, and cardboard. These fires leave behind ash as residue.
Class B
Fires that occur in flammable liquids such as gasoline, alcohol, oil, solvents, and ether. These fires are characterized by rapid flame spread.
Class C
Fires caused by electrical equipment or live electrical circuits, such as short circuits in devices. These fires pose a high risk of electrocution if handled improperly.
Class D
Fires involving combustible metals like magnesium, aluminum, potassium, or sodium. These fires are rare but extremely difficult to extinguish due to the high temperatures they generate.
Class K (or Class F in Europe)
Fires that occur in kitchen environments, involving oils, fats, or lubricants. Although derived from Class B, they require a special classification due to the intensity and nature of the material involved.

Types of Fire Extinguishers

To effectively combat each type of fire, specific extinguishers are designed for the materials involved:

Type A Extinguisher
Uses water to extinguish Class A fires. It is ideal for solid materials like wood, paper, and fabric.
Type ABC Extinguisher
Contains multipurpose dry chemical powder to extinguish Class A, B, and C fires. It is one of the most versatile and widely used extinguishers.
Type BC Extinguisher
Uses inert agents, such as carbon dioxide (CO₂), to smother fires involving flammable liquids (Class B) and electrical fires (Class C).

Safety Recommendations

Before using a fire extinguisher, ensure you have correctly identified the type of fire. Using the wrong extinguisher can worsen the situation.
Familiarize yourself with how to operate fire extinguishers and perform regular maintenance to ensure they work during emergencies.