Ohio Correctional Officer Practice Exam

Which is the appropriate fire suppressant for a class "A" fire?

1. Multipurpose fire extinguisher

2. Carbon dioxide extinguisher

3. Dry chemical

4. Foam fire extinguisher

The correct answer is: Multipurpose fire extinguisher

A class "A" fire involves ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, textiles, and certain plastics. The appropriate fire suppressant for these types of fires is typically one that can effectively cool the burning materials and remove the heat necessary for combustion to continue. A multipurpose fire extinguisher is often designated for use on class "A" fires, as it is filled with materials like water or an agent that allows it to effectively cool and douse the flames. These extinguishers are labeled with a "A" rating, indicating their suitability for class "A" fires. While other types of extinguishers, such as dry chemical, may also be effective against class "A" fires, they may be rated for other classes as well, which can reduce their effectiveness in certain scenarios compared to those specifically rated for class "A". The multipurpose extinguishers are designed for a broader range of applications while still proficiently tackling the common combustibles found in class "A" fires.