The 6 classes of fire - and how to put them out

Making sure your team at work knows all about the 6 classes of fire is absolutely crucial for keeping everyone safe. Each class is defined by the type of fuel that ignites the fire. And being prepped to know how to tackle each one can make all the difference when an emergency rears its head. Imagine a small office where a fire starts because of an electrical fault. The quick-thinking staff member (who has perhaps attended our Fire Warden training!) grabs a CO₂ extinguisher and successfully puts out the fire calmly and without fuss. This prevents significant damage and, more importantly, ensures everyone involved makes it through the incident safely. In this blog we're exploring the six classes of fire and the best methods to us to put them out.

Class A fires

Class A fires involve combustible materials like wood, paper, and textiles. These are really common in offices, where everyday items can quickly become fuel for a fire. Water or foam extinguishers are used to put out a Class A fire. Water helps cool the flames, while foam creates a barrier between the fire and the fuel.

Class B fires

Class B fires are caused by flammable liquids like petrol, oil, and solvents. These fires can be particularly dangerous because of the rapid way the flames spread. Foam or dry powder extinguishers are effective for Class B fires. Foam smothers the fire, cutting off the oxygen supply, while dry powder interrupts the chemical reaction.

Class C fires

Class C fires involve flammable gases like propane and butane. These fires require extra careful handling, as gas leaks can make the situation much more volatile. Dry powder extinguishers are the best choice for Class C fires, as they can effectively disrupt the combustion process.

Class D fires

Class D fires are much less common. These involve combustible metals for example magnesium and sodium and are typically found in industrial settings. Specialised dry powder extinguishers are used to put out Class D fires, as these can absorb heat and prevent the fire from spreading.

Electrical fires

Electrical fires, often referred to as Class E fires, involve electrical equipment and wiring. These fires can occur in any setting where there are electrical devices. CO₂ extinguishers are ideal for electrical fires, as they don't conduct electricity and can safely put out the flames without damaging the equipment involved.

Class F Fires

Class F fires are caused by cooking oils and fats, making them a common hazard in kitchens. Wet chemical extinguishers are designed to tackle Class F fires. They work by forming a soapy layer over the top of the burning oil. This effectively cools and smothers the flames.

In the UK, fire safety is governed by the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. This legislation requires that premises are equipped with appropriate firefighting equipment and that non-automatic firefighting equipment is easily accessible to everyone. Employers have got to ensure that the correct type of fire extinguisher is on hand for the specific fire risks present in that setting. Knowing the 6 classes of fire and how to extinguish them is absolutely essential for maintaining safety in any work environment. By being prepared and informed, staff can effectively respond to fires and protect property and lives.

At Ardent Safety we are experts in workplace fire safety and extinguisher supply and maintenance. We also offer Fire Warden training to make sure staff are well aware of what to when a fire breaks out. Get in touch today to find out more...