Fire Extinguisher Quiz 2009

Class A extinguishers are specifically designed to be used on fires involving ordinary combustibles such as paper, trash, or wood. These types of fires are characterized by the presence of solid materials that are capable of burning easily. Class A extinguishers are not suitable for fires involving electricity or gases and flammable liquids, as these require different types of extinguishing agents and techniques.

Class B extinguishers are specifically designed to tackle fires involving gases and flammable and combustible liquids. These types of fires require a different approach and extinguishing agent compared to fires involving ordinary combustibles like paper or trash. Class B extinguishers are effective in suppressing and extinguishing fires fueled by flammable and combustible liquids and gases, making them the appropriate choice in such situations. Additionally, Class B extinguishers are not recommended for use on electrical fires, as they may not be effective and can pose a risk of electric shock.

Class C extinguishers are specifically designed to extinguish fires involving electricity. This is because water-based extinguishers, which are commonly used for other types of fires, can conduct electricity and pose a risk of electric shock. Class C extinguishers contain non-conductive substances, such as dry chemical powders or carbon dioxide, which can safely suppress electrical fires. Therefore, in the given options, the correct answer is "Electricity" as Class C extinguishers are used for fires involving electrical equipment or electrical sources.

Class D extinguishers are specifically designed to combat fires involving combustible metals. These types of fires are highly dangerous and require a specialized extinguishing agent to effectively suppress them. Class D extinguishers contain a dry powder or sand-like substance that is capable of smothering and cooling down the fire, preventing it from spreading and reigniting. These extinguishers are not suitable for fires involving flammable liquids and gases or electricity, as they are not designed to effectively extinguish these types of fires.

Water is a good conductor of electricity. If water is used on an electrical fire, it can conduct the electricity from the fire, potentially causing a dangerous shock to anyone in contact with the water. This can lead to serious injuries or even death. Therefore, it is important to never use water on an electrical fire and instead use appropriate fire extinguishers or call for professional help.

When using a fire extinguisher, it is important to aim at the base of the fire. This is because the base of the fire is where the fuel source is located. By targeting the base, you can effectively cut off the supply of fuel and extinguish the fire. Aiming at the highest point or the area surrounding the fire may not be effective in putting out the flames.

Fire extinguishers cannot be used on any fire, no matter the size. The effectiveness of a fire extinguisher depends on the type and size of the fire. Different types of fires require specific types of extinguishers, such as water, foam, carbon dioxide, or dry chemical extinguishers. Using the wrong type of extinguisher on a fire can be ineffective or even dangerous. It is important to assess the type and size of the fire before attempting to use a fire extinguisher.

When using a fire extinguisher, it is recommended to stand about 8 feet away from the fire. This distance allows for a safe and effective use of the extinguisher while minimizing the risk of being too close to the flames. Standing too close to the fire can put the person at risk of getting burned or inhaling dangerous fumes. Therefore, maintaining a distance of 8 feet provides a safe buffer zone for using the fire extinguisher effectively.

This statement is false. The numbers on a fire extinguisher represent the ratings for the types and sizes of fires that the extinguisher can effectively put out. The "A" rating refers to the extinguisher's ability to put out fires involving ordinary combustible materials such as wood or paper. The numbers before the "A" indicate the extinguisher's effectiveness in putting out these fires. Therefore, a 3-A extinguisher can handle a fire of the same size as a 2-A extinguisher, but it may be more effective in putting out the fire due to its higher rating.

These numbers are associated with the capacity of the extinguisher to effectively put out fires caused by flammable liquids and gases, such as oil, gasoline, and propane. The number indicates the approximate area (in square feet) of such fires that the extinguisher can effectively combat. For instance, a Class B extinguisher with a rating of "10B" means it can handle a flammable liquid fire covering an area of approximately 10 square feet.