Fires can be classified in five different ways depending on the agent that fuels them: Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, and Class K or Class F. Each type of fire involves different flammable materials and requires a special approach.
In fact, trying to fight a fire with the wrong method might make the situation worse.
Class A Fire is the easiest to put out.
They involve Solid material like paper,
wood, plastic, or clothing.
Class B Fire involve flammable liquids
like Oil Alcohol or Gasoline
Class C Fire involves a source of Electricity
Class D Fire is rare but can happen when a metal ignites
Some Fire might also be termed as
Class K or Class F if it involves cooking oils such as vegetable oils or animal fats.
Using water on some fires, like Class B and Class C fires, can actually make them more dangerous.
If a fire can't be put out leave the area as quickly as possible and alert everyone nearby. Contact Fire Brigade as soon as you can safely do so.
Fire Triangle
The Fire Triangle or Combustion Triangle is a simple model for understanding the necessary ingredients for most fires. The triangle illustrates the three elements of fire need to ignite Heat, Fuel, and Oxidizing agent (usually oxygen). Once a fire has started, the resulting exothermic chain reaction sustains the fire and allow it to continue until and unless at least one of the elements of the fire is blocked.
Based on type of fire we have to use a correct fire extinguisher as per the table
Before You Fight the Fire
1. Ensure Area is Evacuated
2. Always Sound the Alarm regardless of Fire size
3. Know The Location of Fire Extinguishers in your area and how to use them.
4. Know Department emergency procedures and evacuation routes
Criteria for fighting the Fire
1. Fire is small and contained
2. You have safe exit route (can be reached without exposure to fire)
3. Available extinguishers are rated for size and type of Fire
When fighting the Fire remember
1. To keep an exit to your back.
2. When the fire extinguisher is empty- Get out.
3.When you leave the building do not go back in
3.When you leave the building do not go back in
When not to fight a Fire
When
1. Fire has spread beyond its point of origin
2. Your escape path is threatened.
3. Area is smoke filled
4. Your instincts tell you Get Out
Fire Emergency Response Procedure
How to use Fire Extinguisher
| Type | Cass A | Cass B | Cass C | Cass D | Eectrical | Cass F | Comments |
| Combustible Material (eg paper & Wood) |
Flammable Liquid (eg paint & Petrol) |
Flammable Gasses (eg Butane & Methane) |
Flammable Metals (eg Lithium & Potassium) |
Electrical Equipments (eg Computers & Genraters) |
Deep fat Fryers (eg chip pans) |
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| Water | Do not use on Liquid or Electric Fire |
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| Foam | Not Suited to Domestic use |
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| Dry Powder | Can be used Safely up to 1000 Volts |
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| CO2 | Safe on both high and low Voltage |
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| Wet Chemical |
