What type of fire is class B?

• A. Paper and wood
• B. Grease and gas
• C. Electrical equipment
• D. Metal fires

Answer: (B)

Fires involving flammable liquids are categorized as Class B. These fuels include cooking grease, oils, gasoline, and solvents—liquids that can flow and give off flammable vapors. Because the fuel is a liquid, the aim is to smother or separate the fuel from the air and vapors rather than simply cooling with water. That’s why grease and gas are the best fit for Class B. Other types cover different fuels: ordinary combustibles like paper and wood are managed differently, electrical fires require nonconductive extinguishing methods, and metal fires need special agents for reactive metals. For a kitchen grease fire, smothering with a lid or using a Class B extinguishing agent is appropriate; avoid water, which can cause the grease to splash and spread the flames.