Which class of fires involves combustible metals?

Which class of fires involves combustible metals?

• A. A
• B. D
• C. B
• D. C

Answer: (B)

Fires involving combustible metals are classified as metal fires. This group includes metals like magnesium, titanium, sodium, potassium, and some aluminum alloys. These materials burn at very high temperatures and can react violently with water or many common extinguishing agents, so they require special handling. The proper approach is to use a dry powder extinguisher or another agent specifically rated for metal fires, which helps cool and isolate the metal without triggering dangerous reactions. Water, foam, or CO2 can be ineffective or hazardous for metal fires. In contrast, ordinary combustibles (wood, paper) burn as a different category, flammable liquids (gasoline, solvents) as another, and energized electrical equipment fires are yet another, so recognizing that metals form their own class helps ensure the right extinguishing method is used.

Fires involving combustible metals are classified as metal fires. This group includes metals like magnesium, titanium, sodium, potassium, and some aluminum alloys. These materials burn at very high temperatures and can react violently with water or many common extinguishing agents, so they require special handling. The proper approach is to use a dry powder extinguisher or another agent specifically rated for metal fires, which helps cool and isolate the metal without triggering dangerous reactions. Water, foam, or CO2 can be ineffective or hazardous for metal fires. In contrast, ordinary combustibles (wood, paper) burn as a different category, flammable liquids (gasoline, solvents) as another, and energized electrical equipment fires are yet another, so recognizing that metals form their own class helps ensure the right extinguishing method is used.