BASIC CLASSIFICATIONS OF FIRE AND ITS EXTINGUISHING AGENTS
In chapter three and four I was introduced to the basic classifications of fires as well as the various types of agents used to extinguish these fires. Within my reading I found that there are five specified classification of fires; Class A, B, C, D and K.
CLASS A deals with common combustibles such as wood, paper, cloth, rubber, trash and plastics. Fires involving combustion ordinary cellulosic materials, they are common in typical commercial and home settings, but can occur anywhere these types of materials are found. A simple bucket of water can be used on Class A type of fires; water cools temperature of fuel to below ignition temperature. Water has a great effect on cooling the fuel surfaces and thereby reducing the pyrolysis rate of the fuel.

Class B fires are flammable liquids gases, solvents, oil, gasoline, paint, lacquers, tars and other synthetic or oil-based products. Class B fires often spread rapidly and, unless properly secured, can reflash after the flames are extinguished. Fuel removal can stop the flow of liquid or gaseous fuel. A solid stream of water should never be used to extinguish this type because it can cause the fuel to scatter, spreading the flames and causing even more damage. The most effective way to extinguish a liquid or gas fueled fire is by inhibiting the chemical chain reaction of the fire, which is done by dry chemical and Halon extinguishing agents;

Class C are the type of fires that involve energized electrical equipment such as; wiring, controls, motors, data processing panels or appliances. They can be caused by a spark, power surge or short circuit and typically occur in locations that are difficult to reach and see. This type of fire is mainly caused by short-circuiting machinery or overloaded electrical cables. These fires can be a severe hazard to