Understanding the five classes of fire is essential for comprehensive fire safety preparedness. Each class represents different types of fuel and requires specific approaches for extinguishment. Class A fires, fueled by ordinary combustibles like wood and paper, are common in residential and office settings. They can typically be extinguished with water or foam. Class B fires involve flammable liquids such as gasoline and paint, requiring smothering agents like dry chemical powder or carbon dioxide extinguishers.

Class C fires involve electrical equipment and should be handled cautiously to avoid electrical shock, using non-conductive agents like carbon dioxide or dry powder. Class D fires, involving combustible metals like titanium and magnesium, demand specialized dry powder extinguishers due to the unique properties of metal fires. Lastly, Class K fires, typically found in commercial kitchens from cooking oils and fats, require wet chemical extinguishers to effectively smother the flames.

For a deeper understanding of fire classes and enhancing your fire safety strategy, explore further below.