At times it can get confusing learning about the different classifications of fire. Because fire is fire, right? Well, there are several different classes of fire, all ignited by varying materials. Continue reading our helpful guide on what a Class B fire is and to find out all about flammable liquid fires.
Class B fire explained
Of course, all fires are dangerous but Class B fires are especially threatening because they involve the burning of flammable liquids. The materials that can ignite a flammable liquid fire include petrol, alcohol, oil, paraffin, and certain paints. Flammable liquid fires – or Class B fires – can ignite by a single spark or by being heated up to an extreme temperature.
A spark that would ignite a flammable liquid fire is, for example, lighting a cigarette at a petrol station while filling up your car. This is why there are signs all over petrol stations urging people not to smoke in that area. A simple spark would ignite a huge Class B fire and may even cause an explosion.
How to tackle a Class B fire
When dealing with different classifications of fire, you should know that each one may warrant a different type of fire extinguisher. There are several fire extinguisher types and when dealing with a Class B fire you should always try to use a dry powder fire extinguisher. This is the most effective as it works by inhibiting the chemical reaction that’s causing the fire.
If you don’t have a dry powder extinguisher to hand, foam or CO2 extinguishers are also safe to use because they smother the fire, removing it of oxygen. Some fires can also be tackled with a fire blanket. If the fire is in a pan in the kitchen, a fire blanket will extinguish the blaze.
The worst thing you can do when tackling a Class B fire is to use water. The water will immediately evaporate into steam, which spits out the oil and makes the flames bigger. Water will only help a flammable liquid fire to grow quicker.
How to prevent a Class B fire
The best way to tackle a Class B fire, though, is to completely avoid a fire starting in the first place. That comes with knowing how to prevent one.
You should never store more flammable liquid than is absolutely necessary and ensure you keep them well away from sources of ignition. If at all possible, consider storing liquid in flammable storage cupboards made of steel. This creates a barrier between a potential fire outside, and the flammable liquid stored, for around 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to tackle the blaze before it reaches the flammable liquids.
Further Class B fire prevention with NW Fire Solutions
At NW Fire Solutions, we can offer comprehensive fire risk assessments for your premises to ensure its inhabitants are safe and secure.
As well as expert fire risk assessments, we also offer fire awareness training. These training sessions are essential for retaining a level of fire safety in the workplace. Basic fire awareness training is a fundamental training course for any business or organisation.
Our training course enables your staff to gain an appropriate understanding of fire safety in the workplace, their roles, responsibilities, and what safety measures should be in place to protect themselves and others.
If you would like to know more about us and the services we provide, don’t hesitate to contact us today on 0151 665 0124 or email us at info@nwfiresolutions.co.uk.