Which class of fire involves combustible metals?

The classification of fires is based on the type of materials that are burning, and combustible metals specifically belong to Class D fires. This class is designated for fires that involve metals such as magnesium, titanium, zirconium, and sodium, which can ignite and burn with high intensity.

Class D fires require special extinguishing agents that are specifically designed to combat metal fires, as conventional extinguishing agents like water or foam can often react with burning metals and exacerbate the fire. Understanding that Class D fires involve these unique and hazardous materials is critical for safety and effective response in scenarios where such metals are present.

In contrast, other classes cover a different range of materials: Class A refers to ordinary combustibles like wood and paper, Class B pertains to flammable liquids and gases, and Class C is related to electrical fires. Each class requires a different approach for extinguishing, making it essential to recognize their distinct characteristics, especially for safety training and fire response protocols.