Which type of extinguisher is typically used for fires involving flammable liquids?

Which type of extinguisher is typically used for fires involving flammable liquids?

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

Answer: (B)

Fires involving flammable liquids require a extinguisher designed for liquids. Class B extinguishers are built for fuels like gasoline, oil, and solvents and work by coating the liquid to keep it from reigniting, cooling the surface, or displacing the flame’s oxygen. Using a Class B extinguisher minimizes spreading the liquid and effectively interrupts the burn, which is why it’s the best choice for these fires. Other extinguisher classes target different hazards—ordinary combustibles, electrical equipment, or metal fires—so they wouldn’t be appropriate for flammable liquids.

Fires involving flammable liquids require a extinguisher designed for liquids. Class B extinguishers are built for fuels like gasoline, oil, and solvents and work by coating the liquid to keep it from reigniting, cooling the surface, or displacing the flame’s oxygen. Using a Class B extinguisher minimizes spreading the liquid and effectively interrupts the burn, which is why it’s the best choice for these fires. Other extinguisher classes target different hazards—ordinary combustibles, electrical equipment, or metal fires—so they wouldn’t be appropriate for flammable liquids.