What class of fire does a Class B fire extinguisher specifically target?

A Class B fire extinguisher is specifically designed to combat fires that involve flammable liquids and gases. This includes substances such as gasoline, oil, grease, and solvents. The effectiveness of a Class B extinguisher comes from the extinguishing agents it contains, which are formulated to smother flames and cut off the oxygen supply to the fire.

Understanding the specific class of fire that a Class B extinguisher targets is crucial for fire safety and prevention. Inappropriate use of a fire extinguisher can exacerbate a fire, especially if one were to use a Class A extinguisher on flammable liquids—this could lead to dangerous flare-ups or the spread of the fire. Thus, recognizing the characteristics of Class B fires and using the correct extinguisher is essential for effective fire management and for ensuring safety in environments where such flammable materials are present.