What type of materials are associated with Class D fires?

Class D fires involve combustible metals such as magnesium, titanium, potassium, and sodium. These materials are unique because they react with water and can burn at extremely high temperatures, which makes extinguishing them challenging. Water can actually exacerbate these fires by causing explosive reactions. Therefore, the appropriate firefighting methods involve specialized dry powders designed for metal fires, which help to smother the flames without introducing materials that could react adversely.

Other types of materials such as wood and paper are associated with Class A fires, while gasoline and oils are classified as Class B fires. Electrical devices can lead to Class C fires, which involve energized electrical equipment. Understanding these classifications helps ensure that the right firefighting resources and strategies are employed for each fire type.