Which fire class is appropriate for extinguishing fires involving flammable liquids?

Flammable liquids, such as gasoline, oil, and solvents, fall under Class B fire hazards. These types of fires occur when liquids burn and can lead to dangerous and rapidly spreading flames. Class B fire extinguishers are specifically designed to combat this type of fire by utilizing substances that can effectively suppress flames fueled by flammable liquids.

The extinguishing agents typically found in Class B fire extinguishers include foam, carbon dioxide (CO2), and dry chemical agents, which work by either smothering the fire, cooling the burning material, or interrupting the combustion process. This makes them highly effective against flammable liquid fires.

Other classes of fire extinguishers are geared towards different types of materials. For example, Class A is intended for fires involving ordinary combustibles like wood and paper; Class C is designed for electrical fires; and Class D is specific to combustible metals. Thus, understanding the classifications ensures that the appropriate tool is used for each fire type, optimizing safety and effectiveness in extinguishing the fire.