A class "A" fire is composed of what type of fuels?

A class "A" fire is defined as one that involves ordinary combustible materials, which include solid substances such as wood, paper, cloth, and many plastics. These types of materials are typical in residential and commercial settings and are common factors in everyday fires. The classification system for fires is primarily based on the nature of the fuel involved.

Class "A" fires can be effectively extinguished using water, which cools the flame and reduces the temperature of the burning materials. Understanding the nature of class "A" fires is essential for fire suppression techniques, as using the appropriate methods can prevent the fire from spreading and causing further damage.

The other fuel types mentioned do not fit the definition of class "A" fires. Liquids, gases, and metals fall into different classifications (such as class "B" for flammable liquids, class "C" for electrically energized equipment, and class "D" for combustible metals) which have distinct burning characteristics and require different firefighting techniques. This helps to clarify the importance of accurately identifying the fuel type when assessing fire risk and deciding on an appropriate response.