Which class of fire involves flammable or combustible liquids?

The classification of fires is based on the type of materials that are burning, and Class B fires are specifically associated with flammable or combustible liquids. This includes materials such as gasoline, oil, and other similar substances that can ignite and produce a hazardous fire situation.

Understanding Class B fires is crucial for firefighting because they require different extinguishing agents and tactics compared to other classes. For example, water is typically not effective for extinguishing Class B fires, as it can spread the burning liquid and exacerbate the situation. Instead, foam, dry chemical extinguishers, or carbon dioxide are more effective for suppressing this type of fire.

Other classes of fire involve different materials: Class A involves ordinary combustibles like wood, cloth, and paper; Class D involves combustible metals, and Class K pertains to cooking oils and fats. Each class has its distinct characteristics and thus requires different firefighting approaches, highlighting why knowing the classification of fires is vital for effective response and safety management in firefighting scenarios.