Fires including wood, cloth, rubber, paper, as well as many plastic materials require which type of fire extinguisher?

• A. Type B
• B. Type C
• C. Type D
• D. Type A

Answer: (D)

Fires involving wood, cloth, paper, rubber, and many plastics are classified as ordinary combustibles. The extinguisher designed for these fires works primarily by cooling the fuel and forming a barrier to heat, which prevents the flame from continuing. That cooling action directly tackles the main cause of ignition for these materials, making it the most effective choice for these types of fires.

Fires involving flammable liquids require a different approach, as these extinguishers cut off the fuel or smother the flames of liquids. Electrical fires need non-conductive extinguishing methods to avoid shock, and metal fires require specialized agents for safe suppression. While multipurpose extinguishers can handle several classes, a dedicated extinguisher for ordinary combustibles is the best fit for this scenario.