Which class of fire involves combustible metals?

The classification of fires is based on the types of materials that are burning. Class D fires specifically involve combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, and sodium. These metals can ignite and burn at extremely high temperatures, and they require special extinguishing agents or techniques that are specifically designed for metal fires.

Using the wrong type of extinguishing agent on a Class D fire can be dangerous and could worsen the situation. For example, traditional water-based extinguishers are not effective against metal fires; in fact, they can react with the burning metal and exacerbate the fire. This makes understanding the specific classes of fires crucial for effective firefighting and safety.

In contrast, Class A fires involve ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, and cloth; Class B fires involve flammable liquids and gases; and Class C fires involve electrical equipment. Each class has its own unique characteristics and appropriate firefighting methods, reinforcing the importance of correctly identifying the fire type to ensure safety and effectiveness in extinguishing it.