Fire extinguishers are primarily designed to combat which type of fires?

Fire extinguishers are primarily designed to combat combustible fires, specifically those that involve ordinary materials such as wood, paper, fabric, and some plastics. These types of fires fall under Class A fires, which are common in many environments, including homes and workplaces. The extinguishing agents in standard fire extinguishers, like water or foam, are effective at cooling and smothering these fires to prevent them from spreading.

While fire extinguishers can be labeled for use on other types of fires, such as electrical or flammable liquid fires, the main design and use of general-purpose extinguishers cater to combating fires that originate from solid materials. Different extinguishers are tailored for specific fire classifications, but the foundational purpose remains centered around combustible materials. Understanding the classification of fires and the appropriate fire extinguisher to use is crucial for effective fire safety and response.