Which element classification applies to Class D fires?

Which element classification applies to Class D fires?

• A. Metal
• B. Wood
• C. Plastic
• D. Paper

Answer: (A)

Class D fires involve burning metals such as magnesium, titanium, aluminum, sodium, or potassium. These fires behave differently from ordinary combustibles like wood or paper, and from common liquids or electrical fires, so they need specialized handling. Water-based extinguishing agents can react violently with many metals, sometimes causing explosions or the release of hydrogen gas. That’s why the best approach is to use a dry powder extinguisher designed for metal fires or an inert material like dry sand to smother and cool the metal without reacting with it. The other materials listed are not metals, so they don’t fall into Class D.

Class D fires involve burning metals such as magnesium, titanium, aluminum, sodium, or potassium. These fires behave differently from ordinary combustibles like wood or paper, and from common liquids or electrical fires, so they need specialized handling. Water-based extinguishing agents can react violently with many metals, sometimes causing explosions or the release of hydrogen gas. That’s why the best approach is to use a dry powder extinguisher designed for metal fires or an inert material like dry sand to smother and cool the metal without reacting with it. The other materials listed are not metals, so they don’t fall into Class D.