Which extinguisher type is recommended for metal fires such as potassium and sodium?

Which extinguisher type is recommended for metal fires such as potassium and sodium?

• A. Class D extinguishers
• B. Class A extinguishers
• C. Class K extinguishers
• D. Water

Answer: (A)

Fires involving reactive metals like potassium and sodium require a tool designed specifically for metal fires. These metals react violently with water and many common extinguishing agents, which can cause explosions or release flammable hydrogen gas. The appropriate approach is to use a dry powder extinguisher formulated for metal fires. The powder blankets the metal surface, cools the fuel, and isolates it from oxygen, helping to halt the chemical reaction and keep the fire from spreading. In practice, you choose the metal-fire extinguisher that matches the metal type and apply the powder evenly until the fire is out and the area is cooled. Using water or standard extinguishers would not only fail to stop the fire but could provoke a dangerous reaction. The essential point is that metal fires need a specialized dry powder extinguishing agent, not water or other type of extinguisher.

Fires involving reactive metals like potassium and sodium require a tool designed specifically for metal fires. These metals react violently with water and many common extinguishing agents, which can cause explosions or release flammable hydrogen gas. The appropriate approach is to use a dry powder extinguisher formulated for metal fires. The powder blankets the metal surface, cools the fuel, and isolates it from oxygen, helping to halt the chemical reaction and keep the fire from spreading. In practice, you choose the metal-fire extinguisher that matches the metal type and apply the powder evenly until the fire is out and the area is cooled. Using water or standard extinguishers would not only fail to stop the fire but could provoke a dangerous reaction. The essential point is that metal fires need a specialized dry powder extinguishing agent, not water or other type of extinguisher.