What does the fire classification 'Class B' represent?

Class B fire classification specifically represents fires that involve flammable liquids. These types of fires can arise from materials such as gasoline, oil, diesel fuel, grease, or solvents, which are capable of igniting and spreading rapidly. Understanding this classification is crucial for effective fire safety and response, particularly in environments where flammable liquids are stored or used.

Class B fires are typically extinguished using specific methods, such as foam, dry chemical agents, or carbon dioxide extinguishers, which work by suffocating the fire and preventing the flammable vapor from igniting. This knowledge is essential for anyone in charge of safety measures on a vessel or in other settings that manage hazardous materials.

The other classifications mentioned—combustible materials such as wood, electrical equipment, and cooking oils—fall under different categories; Class A pertains to ordinary combustibles (like wood), Class C pertains to electrical equipment, and Class K is designated for cooking oils and fats. Each classification has distinct properties that dictate the appropriate extinguishing methods required.