Fires involving flammable and combustible liquids are classified as what?

Fires involving flammable and combustible liquids are classified as Class B fires. This classification is designated for fires fueled by flammable liquids, such as gasoline, oil, or solvents, as well as combustible liquids like kerosene and diesel. The primary characteristics of Class B fires are the properties of the burning substances, which require specific extinguishing agents that can effectively smother or cool the flames.

Class B fires require different firefighting techniques compared to those for Class A fires, which involve ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, or cloth. Class B fires also differ from Class C fires, which involve energized electrical equipment, and Class D fires that involve combustible metals. Understanding these classifications is essential for effective firefighting and safety measures, as using the wrong type of extinguishing agent can exacerbate a fire, particularly with flammable liquids.