Which class of fire is represented by "Class B" in the classification system?

Class B fires are specifically associated with flammable liquids and gases. This classification includes fuels such as gasoline, propane, oil, and solvents, which can ignite and burn vigorously if exposed to an ignition source. Understanding Class B fires is crucial for effective firefighting, as different types of fires require different approaches for suppression. For instance, water is not effective against Class B fires and can actually spread the flames, whereas specialized extinguishing agents like foam, dry chemical, or CO2 are designed to smother the flames of flammable liquids, removing the oxygen or interrupting the chemical reaction.

The other classes focus on different combustibles: ordinary combustible materials (Class A) involve items like wood and paper, flammable solids (Class C) pertain to materials that can catch fire easily, and electrical equipment (Class D) involves fires that occur in or around electrical sources. Knowing this classification ensures firefighters can select the appropriate extinguishing method to control different types of fires safely and effectively.