Fire Classification
Fire classification is essential for identifying the type of fire and determining the most effective method to control or extinguish it. By categorizing fires based on the materials involved, we can ensure the proper safety measures and extinguishing techniques are applied, minimizing damage and risk.
Fire classes: what you need to know before using a fire extinguisher
Fires can happen unexpectedly and, if they are not controlled in time, they can cause serious damage to property, endanger the lives of people and animals, and interrupt the normal activity of a home, business or institution.
However, a quick response is not enough if the correct equipment is not used. Before attempting to extinguish a fire, it is important to understand what is burning. The type of material involved in the fire determines the extinguishing agent that should be used.
A wrong action can make the situation worse. For example, throwing water onto burning cooking oil can spread the fire immediately and make it much more dangerous. Similarly, using water near live electrical equipment can create a risk of electric shock.
For this reason, understanding fire classes is the first step toward a safe response. Fire classes help identify the nature of the burning material and select the correct fire extinguisher for the situation.
Fire classification according to EN 2
According to the European standard EN 2 and similar international classifications, fires are divided into several main classes, identified by the letters A, B, C, D and F. This classification is used to indicate which type of fire a fire extinguisher is suitable for.
When selecting a fire extinguisher, the label, pictograms, fire rating and the manufacturer’s technical instructions should always be checked. An extinguisher may be suitable for one class of fire, but not necessarily for another.
Class A – solid combustible materials
Class A fires involve solid combustible materials, usually of organic origin, which may leave glowing embers or burning residues during combustion.
Examples: wood, paper, cardboard, textiles, rubber and some types of plastic.
These fires are common in homes, offices, schools, warehouses, administrative buildings and areas where furniture, documents, cardboard packaging or other solid materials are present.
Class A fires are usually extinguished with water, foam or ABC dry powder extinguishers, depending on the environment and the specific risk. The main objective is to cool the burning material and prevent re-ignition.
Class B – flammable liquids
Class B fires involve flammable liquids or substances that burn in liquid form. These fires can spread quickly, especially when the flammable liquid spills or produces vapours.
Examples: petrol, diesel, motor oils, alcohol, solvents, varnishes, paints and wax.
These risks are common in garages, workshops, fuel storage areas, industrial facilities, maintenance zones and spaces where flammable liquids are stored or used.
Class B fires are usually extinguished with foam, ABC dry powder or CO2 extinguishers, depending on the risk and location. Water is generally not suitable, because it may spread the burning liquid and extend the fire.
Class C – flammable gases
Class C fires involve flammable gases. These situations are particularly dangerous because a gas leak can create explosive mixtures with air.
Examples: propane, butane, methane, natural gas and LPG.
In the case of a gas fire, shutting off the gas source is often the most important action, if this can be done without endangering life. Extinguishing the flame without stopping the gas leak may create an even greater hazard, because the gas can continue to accumulate.
Dry powder extinguishers are commonly used for this class. However, if there is a risk of explosion or an uncontrolled gas leak, evacuation and notification of the emergency services must be the priority.
Class D – combustible metals
Class D fires involve combustible metals. These fires are less common in everyday environments, but they can be extremely dangerous in industry, laboratories, metal workshops and manufacturing processes.
Examples: magnesium, aluminium powder, titanium, sodium, potassium and other reactive metals.
This class requires special care, because the use of water, foam or standard extinguishers may cause dangerous reactions and make the fire worse.
Only specialist extinguishing agents designed for combustible metals should be used for Class D fires. Standard ABC dry powder extinguishers should not be considered suitable for this class unless they are specifically marked and certified for that use.
Class F – cooking oils and fats
Class F fires involve cooking oils and fats, usually in kitchens, deep fryers, restaurants, hotels, canteens and food preparation areas.
Examples: vegetable oils, animal fats and oils used for frying.
These fires are highly dangerous because hot oils can reach very high temperatures and re-ignite easily if they are not cooled properly. Throwing water onto burning oil is extremely dangerous and can cause the flames to spread immediately.
Class F fires are extinguished with wet chemical extinguishers or other extinguishers specifically approved for this class. These extinguishers help cool the oil and create a protective layer over the surface, reducing the risk of re-ignition.
Fires involving electrical equipment
Fires involving electrical equipment are not classified as a separate fire class under the EN 2 standard. They are treated according to the type of material that is burning, but the presence of electricity makes the response more sensitive and more dangerous.
Examples: electrical panels, cables, computers, servers, office equipment, industrial equipment and electrical installations.
In these cases, if it is possible and safe, the electrical supply should be disconnected before extinguishing the fire. Water should not be used on live electrical equipment unless the extinguisher is specifically tested and marked for that use.
CO2, dry powder or clean agent extinguishers are commonly used for electrical risks, depending on the environment and the sensitivity of the equipment. In server rooms and areas with sensitive equipment, solutions that leave no residue are preferred.
Why is it important to know the fire class?
Knowing the fire class helps prevent mistakes during an emergency response. The correct extinguisher can control a fire in its early stage, while the wrong extinguisher can spread the fire, create additional smoke, damage equipment or directly endanger the user.
Before using any extinguisher, its label should be checked. The label usually shows the fire classes for which the extinguisher is suitable, the fire rating and the basic operating instructions.
If the fire has spread, there is heavy smoke, the escape route is not safe, or you are not sure which extinguisher to use, do not take unnecessary risks. Evacuate immediately and notify the emergency services.
Last updated on 09 May 2026
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