What characterizes a Class B fire?

A Class B fire is characterized primarily by the involvement of flammable liquids and gases, such as gasoline, oil, grease, and solvents. These types of fires are typically fueled by materials that can burn and release significant amounts of energy when ignited, making them particularly dangerous due to the potential for rapid spread and difficulty in controlling them.

Understanding the nature of Class B fires is crucial for effective fire prevention and response. Fire extinguishers suitable for Class B fires often contain substances like foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide, which are designed to smother or cool the flames, effectively preventing re-ignition.

In contrast, Class A fires involve organic materials like paper and wood, Class D fires are related to combustible metals, and Class C fires arise from electrical equipment. Each of these categories has its own specific hazards and methods for extinguishing them, highlighting the importance of correctly classifying fire types in safety training and emergency response planning.