How are fires classified by type?

Fires are classified by type based on the materials that are burning, which helps in determining the appropriate firefighting methods. The correct classification consists of:

• Class A fires are associated with ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, cloth, and some plastics. These materials typically leave ash after burning, which is why they are categorized as ordinary materials.

• Class B fires involve flammable liquids and gases, including gasoline, oil, grease, and other flammable substances. These types of fires require different extinguishing agents that can smother the flames, such as foam or dry chemical extinguishers.

• Class C fires are those that involve energized electrical equipment, such as wiring, appliances, and power tools. It is crucial to use extinguishing agents specifically designed for electrical fires, as using water on these fires can pose a significant safety hazard.

This classification system is essential for effective fire safety training and response, as using the wrong method to extinguish a fire can lead to more dangerous situations. The other options incorrectly group the materials into the class categories, which could lead to misunderstanding how to handle each type of fire safely.