What are the characteristics of a Class A fire?

Class A fires are characterized by their involvement with ordinary combustibles, which include materials such as wood, paper, cloth, rubber, and some plastics. These types of materials are common in residential and commercial settings, making Class A fires one of the most prevalent types encountered.

The extinguishing agents typically used for Class A fires include water and foam, as they can effectively cool the burning material and reduce the heat. Understanding the specific characteristics of Class A fires is essential for effective firefighting, safety training, and the development of appropriate fire prevention strategies.

The other options involve different classifications of fires; for example, flammable liquids and gases are classified under Class B fires, while electrical equipment falls under Class C, and reactive metals are categorized as Class D fires. Each classification has unique behaviors and requires specific firefighting techniques, emphasizing the importance of correctly identifying the type of fire to ensure proper response.