Which extinguisher is suitable for class B fires that involve liquids?

For fires classified as Class B, which involve flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil, and solvents, foam and CO2 extinguishers are specifically designed to combat these types of fires effectively.

Foam extinguishers work by forming a blanket over the liquid, which helps to suppress the flame and prevent the re-ignition of flammable vapors. This is crucial in Class B fires because it directly tackles the burning fuel while also cooling the surrounding area.

CO2 extinguishers are also suitable for Class B fires because they displace oxygen around the flames. Without oxygen, combustion cannot continue, effectively extinguishing the fire. Additionally, CO2 does not leave any residue, which makes it ideal for use in environments with sensitive equipment.

While water is not typically recommended for Class B fires, as it can spread the flammable liquid and potentially worsen the situation, foam and CO2 can both be effective in putting out these types of fires. Therefore, stating that all three types of extinguishers are suitable for Class B fires does not provide an accurate understanding of their specific applications and effectiveness against different classes of fires. The focus should be on the foam and CO2 extinguishers for such scenarios.