Which class of fire involves flammable liquids such as oil and paints?

The classification of fires is crucial for understanding how to effectively respond to different types of fire scenarios. The correct answer, which pertains to flammable liquids like oil and paints, falls under Class B fires. This class is specifically designated for fires involving combustible and flammable liquids, gases, and greases.

Class B fires require extinguishing agents that can effectively smother the flames or interrupt the chemical reaction of the burning material. Common extinguishing agents for Class B fires include foam, carbon dioxide, and dry chemical extinguishers.

In contrast, Class A fires involve ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, and cloth, where water is typically an effective extinguishing agent. Class C fires pertain to live electrical equipment, requiring extinguishers that do not conduct electricity. Class D fires involve combustible metals, for which specialized extinguishing agents are necessary due to the unique burning characteristics of these metals. Understanding this classification helps ensure that the proper extinguishing agent is used, ultimately enhancing safety during a fire incident.