How are common types of fire extinguishers classified?

Fire extinguishers are classified primarily by the types of fires they are designed to fight, which is determined by the fuel source of the fire. This classification system includes different classes such as A, B, C, D, and K, each corresponding to specific types of materials involved in the fire.

For instance, Class A extinguishers are suitable for ordinary combustibles like wood and paper, Class B is designed for flammable liquids, and Class C is for electrical fires. This system helps users select the appropriate extinguisher for the type of fire they are dealing with, ensuring the extinguishing agent is effective and safe to use on those specific materials.

Knowledge of this classification allows firefighters and civilians alike to respond appropriately in emergency situations, significantly improving fire safety and the chances of successful fire suppression.