Pro Board Firefighter Practice Test

The classification of fires is designed to help firefighters identify the best methods for controlling and extinguishing them. Fires involving flammable liquids fall under Class B fires. This classification includes any fire that involves combustible liquids such as gasoline, oil, paint, and solvents. The primary means of extinguishing Class B fires are by smothering with foam or dry chemical agents, which disrupt the combustion process by separating the fuel from the oxygen.

Understanding that Class B fires involve flammable liquids is crucial for proper fire response and safety protocols, as different classes of fires require different extinguishing agents. For instance, Class A fires involve ordinary combustibles like wood and paper, Class C fires deal with electrical equipment, and Class D fires involve combustible metals, each requiring specific handling and extinguishing techniques. Recognizing the nature of Class B fires ensures that firefighters can effectively manage these hazardous situations.