Types of Fires

Not all fires are the same – some burn faster and are more dangerous, and most importantly, not all fires can be put out or suppressed the same way. Understanding the different types of fire classes can help determine how to best prepare in case of a fire emergency.

Fire is divided into five classes (A, B, C, D, and K) that are primarily based on the fuel that is burning. This classification system helps to assess hazards and determine the most effective type of extinguishing agent.

Classes of Fires

Class A Fires

The most common class, these fires involve common combustibles such as wood, paper, cloth, rubber, trash, and plastics.

Class B Fires

These Involve flammable liquids, solvents, oil, gasoline, propane, butane, paints, lacquers, and other oil-based products or petroleum-based products.

Class C Fires

Old wiring and space heaters are common causes for residential Class C fires, which involve energized electrical equipment such as wiring, controls, motors, machinery, or appliances.

Class D Fires

While Class D isn’t as common, they can be more difficult to extinguish. They typically involve combustible metals such as magnesium, lithium, potassium, and titanium. This type of fire is more commonly seen in laboratories.

Class K Fires

While Class K fires also involve flammable liquids, these are related to combustible cooking materials such as oils and grease commonly found in kitchens. Class K fires can spread quickly and be the most difficult to manage, especially since water can make the situation worse.

Choosing the Right Type of Fire Extinguisher

Choosing the right type of fire extinguisher for a corresponding fire class is essential when preparing for a fire emergency. Here’s how to suppress different types of fire classes: