Which materials are classified under Class A fires?

Class A fires involve ordinary combustible materials, which primarily include organic substances such as wood, paper, rubber, fabrics, and many plastics. These materials are characterized by their ability to ignite and sustain combustion in a variety of environments. The classification system for fires is designed to help identify the best extinguishing agents suitable for specific types of fuel involved in a fire incident.

Understanding that Class A fires typically relate to materials that are carbon-based is critical for effective firefighting. For example, water is an effective extinguishing agent for Class A fires because it can cool the burning material and reduce the temperature below the ignition point.

Other materials mentioned in the other choices, such as gasoline, oils, metals, electrical appliances, chemicals, and toxins, belong to different classes of fires. Gasoline and oils contribute to Class B fires, while metals are generally classified under Class D fires. Electrical appliances can fall into Class C fires, and various chemicals and toxins may not fit neatly into a single category, but would likely pertain to other specialized classifications based on their properties.