What is a class D fire extinguisher used for?

A class D fire extinguisher is specifically designed to tackle fires that involve combustible metals, such as magnesium, aluminum, and titanium. These types of fires are unique because they cannot be extinguished using water or standard fire extinguishing agents. Instead, class D extinguishers utilize dry powder agents that create a barrier between the combustible metal and the oxygen, thereby suppressing the flames.

Understanding the nature of class D fires is crucial for Marine Science Technicians, as they may encounter scenarios involving flammable metals, especially in environments where these materials are present. Each class of fire extinguisher is tailored to address the specific behaviors and dangers posed by various materials, and class D extinguishers play a vital role in safety management in maritime operations that deal with such metals.