What are Class B fires?

Class B fires are specifically defined as fires that involve flammable liquids and gases. This classification is critical for understanding firefighting protocols because the behavior and characteristics of these fires are different from those of other classes. For instance, flammable liquids, which can include gasoline, oil, alcohol, and solvents, can ignite and spread quickly, posing significant risks to safety and requiring specialized extinguishing agents.

Firefighters are trained to use appropriate extinguishing materials, such as foam or dry chemical agents, to combat Class B fires. Understanding the nature of these fires allows fire crews to prepare and employ tactics effectively to suppress the flames and prevent further hazards, such as explosions or the spread of fire to adjacent structures.

The other classifications, while relevant, pertain to different types of materials, such as electrical equipment, ordinary combustibles, and certain metals, which require distinct approaches for effective containment and extinguishment. Knowing the characteristics of Class B fires is essential for firefighting personnel to navigate hazards encountered in airport environments.