The pictograph of a flame and a metal gear represents which type of extinguisher?

The pictograph of a flame and a metal gear represents which type of extinguisher?

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

Answer: (D)

Fires involving metals require a special approach because water and many common extinguishing agents can react violently with burning metal. The symbol of a flame paired with a metal gear signals metal fires, indicating Class D extinguishers. These extinguishers use a dry powder designed to coat the metal and interrupt the chemical reaction at the flame, rather than cooling with water. Water-based or foam extinguishers are not suitable here and can make the fire worse. Other fire classes cover ordinary combustibles (wood, paper), flammable liquids, or electrical equipment, and their symbols show wood/paper, a liquid container, or electrical components rather than a metal gear.

Fires involving metals require a special approach because water and many common extinguishing agents can react violently with burning metal. The symbol of a flame paired with a metal gear signals metal fires, indicating Class D extinguishers. These extinguishers use a dry powder designed to coat the metal and interrupt the chemical reaction at the flame, rather than cooling with water. Water-based or foam extinguishers are not suitable here and can make the fire worse. Other fire classes cover ordinary combustibles (wood, paper), flammable liquids, or electrical equipment, and their symbols show wood/paper, a liquid container, or electrical components rather than a metal gear.