Which class of fire involves combustible metals?

The class of fire that specifically involves combustible metals is classified as Class D. This category is designated for fires that originate from metals such as magnesium, titanium, and sodium, which can burn at extremely high temperatures and are often reactive with water and other materials.

Class D extinguishing agents are specifically designed to smother the fire and prevent re-ignition by forming a crust over the burning metal or by chemically reacting with the combustible metal to reduce oxygen availability. Understanding the nature of Class D fires is crucial for firefighters, as the use of water or standard extinguishing agents from other classes can exacerbate the situation and potentially lead to violent reactions.

In contrast, other classes of fires relate to different types of flammable materials: Class A involves ordinary combustibles (like wood and paper), Class B involves flammable liquids (such as gasoline and oils), and Class K pertains specifically to cooking oils and fats. Recognizing the distinctions among these classes helps in choosing the appropriate firefighting strategy and extinguishing agents, ensuring safety and effectiveness during fire suppression efforts.