What type of fire extinguisher is most appropriate for use on flammable liquids?

Flammable liquids require a specific type of fire extinguisher to effectively combat the flames and prevent the fire from spreading. Class B fire extinguishers are designed for use on fires involving flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil, and grease. They typically use non-conductive agents like foam, powder, or carbon dioxide, which can smother the fire or interrupt the chemical reaction that sustains it.

Class A extinguishers are intended for ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and textiles, while Class C extinguishers are for electrical fires. Class D extinguishers are used for combustible metals. Using the wrong type of extinguisher can be dangerous; for example, a Class A extinguisher might not effectively extinguish a flammable liquid fire and could even exacerbate the situation. Therefore, the selection of a Class B extinguisher is crucial when dealing with flammable liquid fires to ensure proper and safe fire management.