A Class A fire extinguisher is primarily used for which type of fires?

A Class A fire extinguisher is specifically designed for use on fires involving ordinary combustibles, which include materials such as wood, paper, cloth, rubber, and some plastics. The extinguishing agents in Class A extinguishers, typically water or foam, cool the burning material and help to extinguish the flames by removing heat from the fire.

The effectiveness of a Class A extinguisher lies in its ability to soak into solid combustible materials, reducing the temperature and preventing re-ignition. This makes it the most suitable choice for fires that involve these common substances found in many environments, such as homes, offices, and schools.

While other classes of fire extinguishers are better for specific types of fires—like flammable liquids (Class B), electrical fires (Class C), and metal fires (Class D)—the Class A extinguisher is essential for tackling fires that involve ordinary combustibles directly, making it a fundamental piece of safety equipment in many settings.