Guide to Classes of Fires and Methods of Extinguishment 

Class A Fire:Wood, Paper, Textiles and other ordinary combustible materials.

To Extinguish a Class A Fire Use:

  • Pressurized Water
  • ABC Dry Chemical (All Purpose)
  • Soda Acid Foam

Class B Fire: Flammable Liquids: Oils, Solvents, Grease. Paint, etc.
To Extinguish A Class B Fire Use:

  • BC Dry Chemical (regular)
  • Carbon Dioxide Foam

Class C Fire: Live or energized Electrical or Electronic Equipment
To Extinguish A Class C Fire Use:

  • Carbon Dioxide
  • BC Dry Chemical (regular) (This is effective but will destroy electronic gear.)

Class D Fire: Metals: Magnesium., Aluminum, Sodium, Potassium, Zirconium, Titanium, etc.
To Extinguish a Class D Fire Use:

  • Special Metal Extinguishers
  • Special Metal Powders
  • The ordinary extinguishers found in the building should not be used on metal fires because a violent reaction may result.