What does a Type B fire extinguisher indicate it is suitable for?

A Type B fire extinguisher is specifically designed for fires involving flammable liquids, including gasoline, oil, grease, and other petroleum products. These types of fires can be particularly dangerous because they can spread rapidly and are often difficult to extinguish with water. Type B extinguishers typically contain agents such as foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide that effectively suffocate the flames and prevent re-ignition.

Understanding the classification of fire extinguishers is crucial for safety, as using the wrong type of extinguisher can exacerbate the fire situation. For example, using water on a flammable liquid fire can cause the flames to spread, making the situation worse. This is why it is important to recognize that Type B extinguishers are designated for combustible liquids, distinguishing them from those intended for electrical fires, combustible metals, or materials like wood and paper.