You may feel a little confused when trying to decide which category a fire is. After all, it’s simple to believe that a fire is a fire that can be extinguished with any fire extinguisher. However, this is just not true, and thinking otherwise might prove deadly.
Therefore, being aware of the many types of fires helps you respond responsibly and safely. Class B fires, in particular, may only be put out with specific extinguishers. Choosing the incorrect one will worsen the fire and put you and other people at greater risk.
Maintaining fire safety in both home and workplace environments requires an understanding of the various types of fires. Among the most popular types of fires is the Class B fire. Even if this kind of fire is conventional, many individuals are doubtful of what is a Class B fire and how to extinguish it properly.
What is a Class B Fire Extinguisher?
Class B fire extinguishers contain dry chemical compounds (powder or foam), including aqueous film-forming foam, multi-use dry chemicals like ammonium phosphate, halogen-based compounds (which consist of Halon 1301 and Halon 1211), or extremely compressed carbon dioxide.
What is a Class B Fire Extinguisher Used For?
Class B fires are those that have flammable gases and liquids. In the fire triangle (fuel, heat, oxygen, and chemical reaction), they are the main sources of fuel.
Gasoline, diesel fuel, oils, tars, petroleum greases, solvents, alcohol, and oil-based paint are all examples of combustible liquids. Gases that can catch fire include butane, hydrogen, and propane.
The fuel sources of class B flames (gases and liquids) can be extremely reactive and cannot be cooled using water, which will just cause the fuel source to spread, thereby increasing the fire. That is the reason why it is essential to use a class B fire extinguisher created mainly for Class B fires.
Types of Class B Fire Extinguishers
When putting out a Class B fire, separate the fuel from its oxygen source or stop the chemical process of the fire triangle. Different kinds of fire extinguishers are made to accurately do this for Class B fires:
- CO2: A carbon dioxide fire extinguisher suffocates a Class B fire by releasing CO2, decreasing the oxygen required to continue it burning. It also helps to remove heat because the discharge is quite cool. However, because of how rapidly the CO2 gas dissipates this extinguisher is only useful at a relatively short distance – approximately 3-8 feet from the fire.
- Foam: Foam fire extinguishers are effective for both Class A and B fires. The foam component acts on Class B flames by forming a seal on the flammable liquid’s surface, isolating the fuel from the oxygen. But these extinguishers only work when the combustible liquid isn’t flowing freely.
- Dry Chemical: Dry chemical extinguishers, whether standard or multifunctional, are designated for B fires because their agent extinguishes a fire by disrupting the chemical reaction of the fire triangle. Because they work with a condensed non-flammable gas that can carry the dry extinguishing chemical farther, these extinguishers have a wider reach.
- Clean Agent: A clean agent extinguisher includes an extinguishing agent that operates by inhibiting the chemical reaction of a fire and/or reducing heat. It is best on Class B and C fires, and occasionally Class A fires (based on the extinguisher size). They are referred to as “clean” agents because they depend on halogen and halocarbon substances, which are better for people and the environment and need less maintenance after use.
Safety Precautions and Considerations
Although understanding how to put out a Class B fire is essential, prevention should always come first. Following preventative steps can significantly decrease the possibility of a Class B fire expanding.
While fighting with a Class B fire, consider these important precautions:
- Verify that the extinguisher you are applying is the right one. Instead of putting out the fire, using a water extinguisher can make it worse.
- Avoid getting too close to the fire. When you’re using a portable fire extinguisher, we suggest to keep at least 6 to 8 feet distance.
- For stronger Class B flames, or if the fire spreads despite the use of a fire extinguisher, alert your local fire department right away. Clear the area instantly and leave the fire to the experts.
- Knowing the proper equipment and techniques for putting out a Class B fire is necessary. Your expertise and awareness can help to minimize the effects of fire while also ensuring that all are safe.
- Never keep more flammable liquid in storage than is required, and always store it well out of ignition points. If it’s feasible, you could also think about keeping liquids in steel storage cabinets that are combustible.
- Properly marking all flammable and combustible materials is critical for avoiding Class B fires. This labeling can alert workers of the existence of dangerous chemicals, leading them to consider safety precautions in an industrial environment.
- Routine inspections of places where volatile substances are stored can help to identify potential risks before they become fires.
By implementing these precautions and guidelines, you can decrease the chances of a Class B fire ever happening.
Conclusion
Class B fire extinguishers are essential equipment for controlling and putting out fires caused by flammable liquids and gases. These extinguishers contain dry chemicals, foam, and CO2 to either isolate the fuel from its oxygen supply or disrupt the chemical reaction that is causing the fire. You can greatly lower the chance of fire-related events and make a safer environment for everyone by using them properly.