Foam fire extinguishers are recommended for which classes of fires?

Foam fire extinguishers are specifically designed to combat Class A and Class B fires effectively. Class A fires involve ordinary combustible materials, such as wood, paper, and textiles, while Class B fires pertain to flammable liquids, including gasoline, oils, and paints.

The reason foam extinguishers are suitable for these classes is due to their unique ability to smother flames and form a barrier over liquid fuels, preventing the release of flammable vapors. This helps to extinguish the fire while also providing a cooling effect on the materials involved in a Class A fire, thus preventing re-ignition.

In contrast, other classes, such as Class C (involving electrical fires) or Class D (involving combustible metals), are better served by different types of extinguishing agents specifically formulated for those hazards. Therefore, understanding the specific applications of foam extinguishers highlights their effectiveness against Class A and B fires.