A solvent such as gasoline is classified as which fire class?

• A. Class A
• B. Class B
• C. Class C
• D. Class D

Answer: (B)

Fires involving liquids that readily vaporize and sustain burning are categorized as Class B. Gasoline is a flammable liquid, so it falls under Class B. This class covers flammable and combustible liquids such as gasoline, solvents, and oils. The other classifications refer to different fuel types: Class A is ordinary combustibles like wood and paper; Class C involves energized electrical equipment; Class D covers combustible metals. For a Class B fire, use extinguishing agents designed for liquids, such as foam, dry chemical powder, or CO2, and avoid water, which can spread the liquid and make the fire worse.