Internertional Association for Healthcare Security and Safety (IAHSS) Basic Officer Certification Practice Exam

A class D fire extinguisher is used to fight what kind of fire?

1. Flammable liquid fire

2. Flammable metals fire

3. Electrical fire

4. Wood fire

The correct answer is: Flammable metals fire

A Class D fire extinguisher is specifically designed for extinguishing fires that involve combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, and sodium. These types of fires are unique because they cannot be extinguished with water or standard fire extinguishing agents, which could react violently with the metals involved. Class D extinguishers typically contain dry powder agents which smother the fire and absorb heat, creating a barrier between the combustible metal and the oxygen. This is critical in healthcare or industrial settings where flammable metals may be present or used, ensuring that personnel can effectively respond to such fires without the risk of exacerbating the situation. Understanding the compatibility of extinguisher classes with the specific materials involved in fires is essential for maintaining safety protocols in healthcare settings.