What is classified as a Class A fire?

A Class A fire is characterized by ordinary combustible materials. This classification includes items like paper, fabric, wood, and other similar materials that can ignite and sustain combustion. When these materials burn, they produce ash, which is a defining factor of Class A fires.

Understanding the nature of Class A fires is essential for effective firefighting as it determines the appropriate extinguishing methods and agents to be used. For instance, water is often effective in extinguishing Class A fires because it cools the burning material and removes heat from the fire triangle (fuel, heat, and oxygen).

The other classifications focus on different types of materials. Flammable liquids, fuel oil, and grease fall under Class B fires, while electrical circuits and galley fires are categorized as Class C fires. Likewise, combustible metals are identified as Class D fires, each requiring specific methods and agents for extinguishing. This knowledge is crucial for safety protocols in emergency situations.