What type of fire does Class A represent?

Class A fires are categorized as those involving ordinary combustible materials. This includes materials such as wood, paper, cloth, rubber, and some plastics—essentially, any material that can ignite and sustain combustion in a typical environment.

The focus on ordinary combustible materials is crucial because they are the most commonly encountered fires in residential, commercial, and industrial settings. Understanding that Class A fires primarily deal with solid materials allows individuals to apply appropriate extinguishing methods, such as using water or Class A fire extinguishers, which are specifically designed to combat these types of fires effectively.

In contrast to other classifications, such as flammable liquids and gases, electrical equipment, or combustible metals, Class A fires require different approaches and extinguishing agents. This distinction is vital for ensuring safety and effectiveness in fire response.