Putting out Different Types of Fires

6/1/2022 (Permalink)

Fires are complex, and each fire has different plans for action and for extinguishing. There are five different types of fires, Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, and Class K. There are ways to approach each type of fire, and knowing tips and ways to extinguish these fires will be beneficial if you are ever caught in a fire safety situation. 

Class A

Extinguishing with water, using a hose to have constantly flowing water into the fire is the best way to put these out. These types of fires are commonly ignited by wood, trash, papers, plastics, and more. Dumpster fires are prime examples of Class A fires.

Class B

Extniguies by depleting oxygen. If a Class B fire ignites, the best bet for extinguishing is by trying to smother the flames. If you use water on these types of fires the flame will spread and cause more damage. These types of fires are commonly ignited by the exploding of flammable liquids. Gasoline, alcohol, oil, and more can cause Class B fires.

Class C

Extinguishes by shutting off the power. These are known as electrical fires and the best way to extinguish these fires is by cutting the power off, which is described as the fuel source for the fire.  

Class D

Extinguishes with dry powders. These types of fires are common in laboratories and are ignited by combustible metals. Never use water to extinguish, this will worsen the flames. Powdered copper, graphite, and sodium chloride are effective in extinguishing Class D fires. 

Class K

Extinguishes with fire extinguishers. These are cooking fires, and these fires are sparked by greases, oils, and fats. The chemical fire extinguishers you have on hand are the best for putting these out because the chemical agents contained in these fire extinguishers absorb the heat of the flames.