What class of extinguisher is necessary for flammable metals?

Flammable metals, such as magnesium, titanium, and sodium, require a specific class of fire extinguisher known as class D. Class D extinguishers are designed to extinguish fires that involve combustible metals by using dry powder agents that can smother the flames and separate the metal from oxygen, preventing further combustion. These extinguishers are particularly effective because they don’t react with the burning metals, which can happen with water or other common extinguishing agents. Understanding the unique properties of different classes of fire extinguishers is crucial for effectively managing fire hazards associated with various materials. This is why a class D extinguisher is essential for handling flammable metal fires, ensuring safety and effective firefighting practices on board vessels or in any environment where such materials are present.