Which fire class is specifically associated with metal fires?

The classification of fire classes is important for understanding what materials are involved in a fire and how to effectively extinguish those fires. Class D fires are specifically associated with combustible metals such as magnesium, titanium, and sodium. These types of metals can ignite and burn at very high temperatures, often requiring special agents, like dry powder extinguishers, to control and extinguish the flames.

Class D fires are unique because water and standard fire extinguishers typically used for other classes of fires can exacerbate the situation, potentially causing violent reactions with the burning metals. Therefore, recognizing that Class D is the designated category for metal fires allows firefighters and fire safety personnel to use appropriate strategies and equipment to manage these dangerous situations effectively.