How are gasoline fires classified?

Gasoline fires are classified as Class B fires. This classification pertains to flammable liquids and gases, which includes substances like gasoline, oils, and solvents. Class B fires occur when these types of materials are ignited, and they typically require specific extinguishing methods to be dealt with safely.

Class B fire extinguishers often contain foam, dry chemical agents, or carbon dioxide, which effectively suffocate the flame or interrupt the chemical reaction that sustains the fire. Water is not effective for extinguishing Class B fires because it can spread the flammable liquid rather than extinguish it.

Although other classifications exist, such as Class A for ordinary combustibles (like wood or paper), Class C for electrical fires, and Class D for combustible metals, gasoline falls specifically into the Class B category due to its volatile and flammable nature. Understanding these classifications is essential for effective fire safety and response in municipal wastewater treatment facilities, where various flammable materials can be present.