How to Distinguish Between the Different Classes of Fire

Summary

This video explains how different types of fires require specific extinguishing methods. It covers the dangers of using the wrong fire retardant, which could worsen the situation, especially with liquids or electrical equipment. The video introduces fire classifications: Class A for solid combustibles like paper, Class B for flammable liquids, Class C for electrical fires, and Class D for combustible metals. Each class demands a unique extinguishing approach, such as water, chemical foams, or dry chemicals, depending on the fire’s fuel source. Viewers are urged to be aware of fire types and respond safely.

Takeaways

• 🧯 To extinguish a fire, it's crucial to use the appropriate retardant based on the materials involved and the location of the fire.
• 💧 Water is effective for Class A fires involving solid materials like paper and wood, as it cools the materials and deprives them of oxygen.
• 🚫 Using water on Class B fires, which involve flammable liquids, can spread the fire further.
• ⚠️ Pouring water on electrical fires can lead to electrocution due to water's conductivity.
• 🧪 Class B fires are extinguished using chemical foams that create a blanket to cut off the fire's oxygen supply.
• 🔌 Class C fires involve electrical equipment and are best extinguished by smothering with non-conductive dry chemicals to starve the fire of oxygen.
• 🛠️ Dry chemical agents like mono ammonium phosphate, potassium bicarbonate, and potassium chloride are used for Class C fires.
• 🌀 Class D fires are rare and involve combustible metals; they require immediate professional assistance from the fire department.
• 📚 Understanding the different classes of fires (A, B, C, D) is essential for selecting the correct method and materials for extinguishing them.
• ☎️ In case of a Class D fire, do not attempt to extinguish it yourself and call the local fire department immediately.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of using retardants when extinguishing a fire?

The primary purpose of using retardants like water, baking soda, or sand is to reduce the heat of the fire or deprive it of fuel or oxygen.

Why is it crucial to consider the type of materials burning when extinguishing a fire?

It is crucial because using the wrong fire retardant can exacerbate the situation. For instance, water can spread a fire involving burning liquids.

What are the potential dangers of using water on fires involving electrical equipment?

Using water on fires involving electrical equipment can be dangerous because water conducts electricity, leading to the risk of electrocution.

What are Class A fires, and how can they be extinguished?

Class A fires involve everyday solid combustibles like paper and wood. They can be extinguished with water, which cools the materials and helps deprive them of oxygen.

What types of fires are classified as Class B, and how are they typically extinguished?

Class B fires involve flammable gases, liquids, and some plastics. They are typically extinguished by applying chemical foams that blanket the area and cut off the fire's oxygen supply.

What are Class C fires, and what method is used to extinguish them?

Class C fires involve electricity and can occur in equipment like copiers and electrical wiring. They are extinguished by smothering, starving them of oxygen, using non-conductive dry chemicals.

What substances are used to extinguish Class C fires, and why?

Dry chemicals such as mono ammonium phosphate, potassium bicarbonate, and potassium chloride are used for Class C fires because they are non-conductive and can safely smother the fire.

What distinguishes Class D fires, and what is the recommended action when encountering one?

Class D fires occur when combustible metals like potassium, sodium, and magnesium catch fire. The recommended action is to call the local fire department immediately and not attempt to extinguish it yourself.

Why is it advised not to attempt to put out a Class D fire without professional help?

It is advised not to attempt to put out a Class D fire without professional help because these fires involve reactive metals that require specialized knowledge and equipment to handle safely.

How does the method of extinguishing a fire differ based on the class of fire?

The method of extinguishing a fire differs based on the class of fire because each class requires a specific approach and type of retardant to effectively reduce heat, deprive the fire of fuel or oxygen, or cut off its oxygen supply without causing additional hazards.