We all have some lessons to learn from yesterday’s mishap but
before we talk about them, let’s understand what fire fighting
methods are generally available in commercial installations
these days. This note is to give a brush-up to people on how to
respond in a fire break-out situation. Based on the fuel, fire
can classified as Class A, B, C or D and for each type of fire,
suitable extinguishing agents are specified. Class A fire is
most common which is caused by burning of wood, cloth and paper
for which water is a good extinguisher. DO NOT use water for
other classes of fire else it could be more damaging. Class B
fires are those which happen due to flammable liquids, oils and
grease etc. Class C fires are those involving live electrical
equipment and class D fires involve burning of metals like
sodium, potassium and magnesium. Compressed carbon dioxide and
dry powder extinguishers can be used for such fires. These fire
extinguishing agents are identified and kept in each building at
various locations. A sp