What does a Class B fire extinguisher address?

A Class B fire extinguisher is specifically designed to combat fires involving flammable liquids, such as gasoline, oils, and solvents. This classification is crucial because flammable liquids have unique properties that make them different from ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, or textiles, which are addressed by Class A extinguishers.

When a Class B fire occurs, the flames burn at a high heat and often produce large amounts of flammable vapors. A Class B extinguisher employs agents like foam, carbon dioxide, or dry chemical powders that are effective in smothering the fire, displacing oxygen, or interrupting the chemical reaction, thus extinguishing the flames while preventing re-ignition from the vapors.

Understanding the specific categories of fire extinguishers is vital for fire safety and prevention, ensuring that the right type of extinguisher is used in the appropriate situations to maximize fire control and safety.