Which extinguisher class is appropriate for fires involving flammable liquids?

Which extinguisher class is appropriate for fires involving flammable liquids?

• A. Class B
• B. Class A
• C. Class C
• D. Class D

Answer: (A)

Fires involving flammable liquids require a Class B extinguisher. These extinguishers are designed for liquids such as gasoline, solvents, oils, and paints. They work by smothering the fuel or interrupting the flame’s chemical reactions, depending on the agent (foam, dry chemical, or CO2). Water is dangerous on these fires because it can spread the flammable liquid and make the fire worse. For context, fires from ordinary combustibles (wood, paper) use Class A, electrical fires use Class C, and metal fires use Class D. Some multi-class extinguishers labeled for A, B, and C are available, but always check the label to ensure suitability for the specific liquid you’re dealing with.

Fires involving flammable liquids require a Class B extinguisher. These extinguishers are designed for liquids such as gasoline, solvents, oils, and paints. They work by smothering the fuel or interrupting the flame’s chemical reactions, depending on the agent (foam, dry chemical, or CO2). Water is dangerous on these fires because it can spread the flammable liquid and make the fire worse. For context, fires from ordinary combustibles (wood, paper) use Class A, electrical fires use Class C, and metal fires use Class D. Some multi-class extinguishers labeled for A, B, and C are available, but always check the label to ensure suitability for the specific liquid you’re dealing with.