Which class of fire extinguisher is appropriate for an oil fire?

A fire involving oil is classified under Class B fires. Class B fires include those fueled by flammable liquids such as oils, gasoline, solvents, and other petroleum products. Fire extinguishers designed for Class B fires are engineered to suffocate the fire by interrupting the chemical reaction between the fuel and oxygen. They typically contain agents such as foam, carbon dioxide (CO2), or dry chemicals capable of effectively putting out fires caused by flammable liquids.

In contrast, Class A extinguishers are meant for ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and cloth; Class C extinguishers are specifically for electrical fires; and Class D extinguishers are suitable for combustible metals such as magnesium and titanium. Each class is tailored to combat specific fire types, highlighting the importance of selecting the correct extinguisher based on the fire's fuel source to ensure effective suppression and safety.