What is Class A?

What is Class A?

• A. Flammable Solids
• B. Flammable Liquids
• C. Flammable Gases
• D. Combustible Metals

Answer: (A)

Fire classification by fuel type is used so crews know how a fire will behave and what extinguishing method to use. Class A refers to solid combustibles—materials that burn as solids and often leave ash, such as wood, paper, and textiles. Because the fuel is a solid, these fires are cooled to stop the reaction, so water (for cooling) is effective; this is why “Flammable Solids” best describes Class A. Liquids, gases, and metals belong to other classes and behave differently, which is why they’re not described as Class A.

Fire classification by fuel type is used so crews know how a fire will behave and what extinguishing method to use. Class A refers to solid combustibles—materials that burn as solids and often leave ash, such as wood, paper, and textiles. Because the fuel is a solid, these fires are cooled to stop the reaction, so water (for cooling) is effective; this is why “Flammable Solids” best describes Class A. Liquids, gases, and metals belong to other classes and behave differently, which is why they’re not described as Class A.