What distinguishes a Class B fire from a Class A fire?

A Class B fire is characterized by the presence of flammable liquids and gases, such as gasoline, oil, paint, and propane. This is crucial because these materials burn in ways that are distinct from solid combustibles. In contrast, Class A fires involve solid materials, typically organic substances like wood, paper, and textiles. Understanding this distinction is vital for selecting the appropriate extinguishing method and suppressing the fire effectively.

This classification system is based on the nature of the materials that are burning. Knowing the difference allows firefighters and safety personnel to choose the correct fire extinguishing agent and to implement effective firefighting strategies. For instance, using water on a Class B fire can be dangerous, as it might spread the burning liquid rather than extinguish it, while water is generally effective for cooling and extinguishing Class A fires.

Recognizing the differences between these fire classes is essential for fire safety training and managing fire emergencies effectively.