Types of Fires

Hello again! In this video, we’re going to talk about the different categories of fires that we may encounter in our everyday lives. Being prepared for a fire emergency starts with understanding the different types of fires and how to respond to them.

Fires can be classified into four main categories: Class A, Class B, Class C, and Class D. Let's take a closer look at each one.

Class A fires are the most common and involve ordinary combustibles such as paper, wood, cloth, and some plastics. These fires can typically be put out with a water-based fire extinguisher.

Class B fires, on the other hand, involve flammable liquids and gases such as gasoline, oil, and propane. To effectively put out these fires, it's necessary to use a foam-based or dry chemical-based fire extinguisher.

Class C fires involve electrical equipment, such as appliances, tools, and machinery. It's important to note that water-based fire extinguishers should not be used as they can cause electrical shock. Instead, a CO2-based or a dry chemical-based fire extinguisher should be used to put out Class C fires.

Class D fires are a bit more specialized and involve flammable metals such as magnesium, titanium, and aluminum. These fires require special fire extinguishers made specifically for Class D fires.

It’s essential to know what type of fire you are dealing with so you can use the appropriate fire extinguisher and respond effectively.

Next, you will learn about the essential steps to follow when encountering a fire.