What defines a Class B fire?

A Class B fire is characterized by the presence of flammable liquids, tars, and oil-based paints. These types of fires are fueled by combustible liquids that can produce vapors capable of igniting easily. It is crucial to identify Class B fires accurately because they require specific extinguishment methods, often involving foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide extinguishers, which are suitable for the unique hazards presented by these materials.

Understanding the nature of Class B fires is essential for effective fire safety and prevention strategies. For instance, water is not effective for extinguishing Class B fires as it can spread the flames instead of quenching them. This knowledge helps ensure that appropriate firefighting methods and equipment are on hand to address emergencies involving these types of combustible materials effectively.