What do Class A fire extinguishers target?

Class A fire extinguishers are specifically designed to combat fires involving ordinary combustibles, which include materials like wood, paper, and cloth. These types of materials are common in many environments, and when they ignite, they can lead to rapid and uncontrollable fires.

The distinction is important because Class A extinguishers operate by using water or other agents that cool the burning materials and remove heat. This is why they are effective against fires fueled by these ordinary combustibles. Understanding the classification of fires and the appropriate extinguishers to use is critical for safety and effective fire management.

Other classes of extinguishers are meant for specific types of fires; for example, flammable liquids and gases require different extinguishing agents to avoid spreading the fire, which is why other options do not apply here.