Understanding the 5 different classes of fires can help you determine the biggest fire risks at your facility, depending on the fuels and fire hazards present as well as how best to prepare in case of a fire emergency.

• Class A – a fire involving solid materials, usually of an organic nature, in which combustion normally takes place with the formation of glowing embers. Combustible materials include paper, wood, cardboard and most plastics.
• Class B – a fire that involve flammable or combustible liquids such as petrol, kerosene, grease and oil.
• Class C – a fire involving electrical equipment such as appliances, wiring, circuit breakers and outlets, or a class A, B or D fire occurring in the presence of energized electrical equipment. VERY IMPORTANT!! Never use water to extinguish class C fires!
• Class D – a fire involving chemicals and combustible metals such as magnesium, titanium, potassium and sodium.
• Class F – fires that involve cooking oils, trans-fats or fats in cooking appliances that are typically found in restaurants.

Different extinguishing mediums are available for specific classes of fire which necessitates the assessment of the type of hazard in the particular area you are protecting in order to maximise the effectiveness of the extinguisher you are going to have available in a fire emergency.