Fire incidents are a serious threat in Australia, causing damage to homes, businesses, and the environment. Every year, tens of thousands of fires break out, ranging from small kitchen fires to large-scale bushfires.
So, not all fires are the same. Different materials burn in different ways, meaning each fire requires a specific approach to extinguish safely. Using the wrong firefighting method can make a fire worse, spreading flames instead of stopping them.
Understanding the classification of fire types is essential for homeowners, business owners, and landowners in Australia. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from fire types and classes to essential fire safety tips and the best ways to tackle each class of fire.
The Six Fire Classes in Australia
Class A – Combustible Materials
What It Includes:
Class A fires are the most common type of fire and occur when solid, flammable materials ignite. These fires are often found in homes, offices, factories, and outdoor environments, making them a major fire safety concern. Since Class A fires involve everyday materials like wood, paper, and fabric, they spread quickly and can cause extensive damage if not contained early.
Why These Fires Are Dangerous:
- They ignite and spread rapidly, especially in dry or enclosed spaces.
- They produce thick smoke, which can reduce visibility and cause respiratory issues.
- Burning plastics and synthetic materials can release toxic fumes, increasing health risks.
How Class A Fires Start:
Class A fires can ignite from a variety of everyday sources, including:
- Unattended heat sources such as candles, fireplaces, space heaters, and stoves placed too close to flammable materials.
- Overloaded electrical circuits, faulty wiring, power surges, or overheated electronics igniting furniture, curtains, or carpets.
- Bushfires and uncontrolled outdoor fires from sparks, dry vegetation, or carelessly discarded cigarettes under hot and windy conditions.
- Smoking-related fires caused by cigarette butts not fully extinguished in bins or on dry surfaces.
- Sparks from tools or machinery like cutting, grinding, or welding near flammable materials.
How to Extinguish a Class A Fire:
Since Class A fires involve solid materials, they can be put out effectively by cooling and smothering flames. The following extinguishers and methods are best:
- Water-based extinguishers absorb heat and cool burning materials, stopping further ignition. Ideal for small to medium fires.
- Foam extinguishers create a barrier between flames and oxygen, suffocating the fire and preventing reignition.
- Fire hoses and sprinklers are used in large-scale fires in warehouses, commercial buildings, or bushfire containment zones.
- Fire blankets are useful for smothering flames in small-scale fires, such as clothing or furniture fires.
Prevention and Fire Safety Measures:
To reduce the risk of Class A fires, follow these best practices:
- Keep flammable materials away from heat sources. Maintain at least a meter of clearance around stoves, space heaters, and fireplaces.
- Install smoke detectors in bedrooms, living areas, and hallways to detect fires early.
- Dispose of flammable waste properly. Paper, cardboard, and dry vegetation should be discarded in metal or fireproof bins.
- Store textiles, paper, and plastics safely. Avoid piling flammable materials in storage areas or attics where heat can build up.
- Use fire-resistant materials. If possible, choose fire-retardant furniture, curtains, and carpets to slow down fire spread.
- Have a fire extinguisher and blanket available in easily accessible locations.
- Practice safe disposal of cigarettes and matches. Use designated smoking areas with sand-filled bins for disposal.
What Not to Do:
Using the wrong firefighting method can make Class A fires worse. Avoid these common mistakes:
- Never use CO₂ extinguishers. These are designed for electrical fires and won’t cool down burning materials, meaning the fire could reignite.
- Don’t pour water on fires involving electrical devices. Always disconnect power first to avoid electrocution.
- Never fan or blow on flames. This provides more oxygen, fueling the fire instead of putting it out.
- Avoid throwing burning objects outside. A small flame could ignite dry grass, leaves, or garbage, starting a larger fire.
Class B – Flammable Liquids
What It Includes:
Class B fires involve flammable liquids such as petrol, diesel, oils, solvents, and paints. These fires can spread rapidly and are common in industrial settings, garages, and chemical storage areas.
Why These Fires Are Dangerous:
- Flammable liquid fires spread quickly across surfaces and can reignite if not extinguished properly.
- Many flammable liquids produce toxic vapors that can ignite with minimal heat or sparks.
- Water should not be used, as it can cause the burning liquid to spread further.
How Class B Fires Start:
- Spilled fuel or chemicals coming into contact with heat sources.
- Improper storage of flammable liquids in non-approved containers.
- Leaks from fuel lines, engines, or industrial machinery.
- Static electricity or sparks igniting vapors in poorly ventilated areas.
How to Extinguish a Class B Fire:
- Foam extinguishers smother the fire and prevent vapors from igniting.
- Dry powder extinguishers disrupt the chemical reaction and stop combustion.
- Carbon dioxide (CO2) extinguishers remove oxygen to suffocate the fire.
Prevention and Fire Safety Measures:
- Store flammable liquids in approved, sealed containers away from ignition sources.
- Ensure proper ventilation in storage areas to reduce vapor buildup.
- Avoid smoking near chemical storage areas.
- Regularly inspect fuel lines and equipment for leaks.
What Not to Do:
- Never use water, as it can spread the flammable liquid and worsen the fire.
- Do not attempt to move a burning container, as it can cause spills and spread the fire further.
Class C – Flammable Gases
What It Includes:
Class C fires involve flammable gases such as LPG, butane, propane, methane, and hydrogen. These fires pose unique hazards due to their rapid combustion and potential for explosion.
Why These Fires Are Dangerous:
- Gas fires can ignite with even a small spark, leading to violent explosions.
- Leaks from gas cylinders or pipelines can create an invisible and odorless fire hazard.
- Gas fires spread rapidly and are difficult to control due to their high-pressure nature.
How Class C Fires Start:
- Gas leaks from damaged or improperly installed pipelines.
- Open flames or sparks in areas with accumulated gas vapors.
- Malfunctioning gas appliances releasing flammable fumes.
- Poor ventilation allowing gas to build up in confined spaces.
How to Extinguish a Class C Fire:
- Shut off the gas supply immediately if it is safe to do so.
- Dry powder extinguishers disrupt combustion and cut off the oxygen supply.
- Ventilate the area to disperse accumulated gas and reduce the risk of explosion.
Prevention and Fire Safety Measures:
- Regularly check gas lines, connections, and appliances for leaks.
- Store gas cylinders in well-ventilated, open areas away from ignition sources.
- Use gas detectors in confined spaces to monitor for leaks before ignition occurs.
- Train individuals on how to shut off gas supplies in case of emergencies.
What Not to Do:
- Never use water to put out a gas fire, as it will not extinguish the flames and may cause further spread.
- Do not attempt to reignite gas burners if there is a suspected leak.
- Avoid using electrical switches or appliances in an area suspected of a gas leak, as they could create a spark.
Class D – Combustible Metals
What It Includes:
Class D fires involve combustible metals such as magnesium, aluminum, potassium, sodium, and lithium. These fires are most common in industrial settings, manufacturing plants, and laboratories where metal powders, shavings, and filings accumulate.
Why These Fires Are Dangerous:
- Combustible metals burn at extremely high temperatures, making them difficult to extinguish.
- Water and standard fire extinguishers can react violently with certain metals, worsening the fire.
- Some burning metals can release toxic fumes or react with air, increasing the risk of explosion.
How Class D Fires Start:
- Sparks from welding, grinding, or cutting metal surfaces igniting fine metal shavings.
- Chemical reactions between certain metals and moisture leading to spontaneous combustion.
- Friction or overheating of metal components in industrial machinery.
How to Extinguish a Class D Fire:
- Specialized dry powder extinguishers designed for metal fires absorb heat and smother flames.
- Sand or dry earth can be used as an emergency measure to cover and isolate the fire.
- Metal fire blankets can be used to starve the fire of oxygen.
Prevention and Fire Safety Measures:
- Store combustible metals separately from flammable materials and moisture.
- Use non-sparking tools in environments with metal powders or shavings.
- Maintain good housekeeping to prevent the accumulation of fine metal particles.
- Implement proper ventilation in areas where metal dust is present to reduce the risk of ignition.
What Not to Do:
- Never use water or foam extinguishers, as they may cause a violent reaction.
- Do not use CO₂ extinguishers, as they may not be effective against metal fires.
- Avoid disturbing burning metal powders, as movement can introduce more oxygen and intensify combustion.
Class E – Electrical Fires
What It Includes:
Class E fires involve electrical equipment such as faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, electrical panels, and malfunctioning appliances. These fires can occur in homes, offices, and industrial settings.
Why These Fires Are Dangerous:
- Electrical fires can spread quickly through hidden wiring and components inside walls.
- Water-based extinguishers can cause electrocution when used on live electrical fires.
- Overheating and sparking can ignite nearby combustible materials, escalating the fire.
How Class E Fires Start:
- Overloaded circuits drawing excessive power and overheating.
- Frayed or exposed wiring making contact with flammable materials.
- Malfunctioning appliances generating heat or sparks.
- Improper use of extension cords and power strips.
How to Extinguish a Class E Fire:
- CO₂ extinguishers suffocate the fire by removing oxygen without leaving residue.
- Dry powder extinguishers interrupt combustion and are safe for electrical fires.
- Turning off the power supply is the most effective way to stop an electrical fire from spreading.
Prevention and Fire Safety Measures:
- Regularly inspect electrical systems for wear, damage, and loose connections.
- Avoid overloading power outlets and using multiple high-power appliances on a single circuit.
- Ensure that all electrical installations comply with safety standards.
- Use surge protectors to prevent electrical surges from damaging equipment.
- Unplug appliances when not in use to reduce fire risks.
What Not to Do:
- Never use water or foam extinguishers, as they conduct electricity and increase electrocution risk.
- Do not attempt to put out an electrical fire without first disconnecting the power.
- Avoid using damaged or frayed extension cords, which can create sparks and start fires.
Class F – Cooking Oils and Fats
What It Includes:
Class F fires, also known as kitchen fires, occur when cooking oils, fats, and grease overheat and ignite. These fires are most common in households, commercial kitchens, and food processing facilities.
Why These Fires Are Dangerous:
- Grease fires burn at extremely high temperatures and can spread quickly if not contained.
- Water can cause a dangerous splatter effect, spreading burning oil and intensifying the fire.
- Thick smoke from burning oils contains toxic fumes that can cause respiratory distress.
How Class F Fires Start:
- Leaving cooking unattended, allowing oils to overheat and reach ignition temperatures.
- Spills of hot oil making contact with open flames or heating elements.
- Using excessive oil in deep fryers without proper temperature control.
- Residue buildup in kitchen exhaust systems leading to fire hazards.
How to Extinguish a Class F Fire:
- Wet chemical extinguishers react with the burning oil to form a soapy layer that cools and smothers the flames.
- Fire blankets can be used to cover burning pots or pans and cut off the oxygen supply.
- Turning off the heat source immediately can help slow down the spread of the fire.
Prevention and Fire Safety Measures:
- Never leave cooking unattended, especially when frying with oil.
- Keep a fire blanket and wet chemical extinguisher within reach in the kitchen.
- Regularly clean kitchen exhaust systems and rangehood filters to remove grease buildup.
- Use deep fryers with built-in temperature controls to prevent overheating.
- Ensure that all cooking appliances are properly maintained and functioning.
What Not to Do:
- Never use water on a grease fire, as it will cause the burning oil to splatter and spread the flames.
- Do not attempt to move a burning pan, as spilling the oil can cause severe burns and spread the fire.
- Avoid throwing baking powder, flour, or other powdered substances onto a grease fire, as they can ignite explosively.
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Pro Tip: Never use water on Class B (flammable liquids), Class C (gases), or Class E (electrical) fires—it can make the fire spread or cause electrocution!
- Staff: Ensure everyone knows how to use a fire extinguisher properly.
Essential Fire Safety Tips: Protecting Lives & Property
Fire safety is about more than just having a fire extinguisher—it’s about understanding risks, staying prepared, and knowing how to react quickly. Whether at home, in the workplace, or on commercial property, following fire prevention and response strategies can save lives and prevent costly damage.
Assess Your Fire Risks
Before you can prevent a fire, you need to identify potential hazards in your environment. Conduct a fire risk assessment in your home, business, or workplace to reduce the chances of ignition.
How to Conduct a Fire Risk Assessment:
- Inspect heat sources such as stoves, heaters, and industrial equipment to ensure they are safe and properly maintained.
- Identify flammable materials, including paper, textiles, chemicals, and combustible dust in storage areas.
- Check electrical wiring for faults, overloaded circuits, or damaged power cords.
- Ensure fire escape routes are clear and that all exits are easily accessible.
- Review fire risks specific to your workplace, as industrial and commercial environments may have unique fire hazards.
Install Fire Safety Equipment
Having the right fire safety tools can stop a small fire from escalating. Fire safety equipment should be installed and maintained according to the fire risks present in a given space.
Fire Safety Equipment for Homes:
- Smoke alarms in every bedroom, hallway, and living space.
- Fire extinguishers placed in kitchens, garages, and near heating appliances.
- Fire blankets for quick response to small cooking or electrical fires.
Fire Safety Equipment for Workplaces:
- Multi-purpose extinguishers covering Class A, B, and C fires (paper, liquid, and gas fires).
- Fire hose reels in buildings with large floor areas.
- Emergency lighting and signage to ensure safe evacuation.
Fire Safety Equipment for Industrial Properties:
- Fire suppression systems in kitchens, server rooms, and chemical storage areas.
- Sprinkler systems for high-risk areas such as warehouses and large commercial buildings.
- Fire pumps to maintain adequate water pressure during firefighting efforts.
Businesses in high-risk industries, such as hospitality, manufacturing, and fuel storage, should have specialized fire safety systems suited to their unique risks.
Maintain Your Fire Safety Equipment
Fire safety equipment must be regularly checked to ensure it will function when needed.
Fire Safety Equipment Maintenance Checklist:
- Fire extinguishers should be inspected monthly and serviced annually according to Australian Standard AS 1851.
- Smoke alarms should be tested monthly, with batteries replaced annually. Entire units should be replaced every 10 years.
- Sprinkler systems and fire pumps should be serviced every six months by professionals.
- Fire blankets should be checked for damage or contamination and replaced if necessary.
- Exit signs and emergency lighting should be functional and clearly visible.
Australian businesses must comply with AS 1851-2012, which mandates regular fire safety inspections and maintenance.
Train Your Household and Staff
Knowing how to respond during a fire can mean the difference between life and death. Fire safety training ensures that everyone in a home or workplace knows what to do in an emergency.
Fire Safety Training Essentials:
- Train household members and staff on how to properly use a fire extinguisher using the PASS technique (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep).
- Conduct fire drills to practice safe evacuation procedures.
- Teach the Stop, Drop, and Roll method to prevent injury if clothing catches fire.
- Educate kitchen staff and residents on proper responses to grease fires, such as using a fire blanket rather than water.
- Ensure everyone understands the importance of unplugging appliances in the event of an electrical fire.
Businesses should conduct fire drills every six months to ensure staff are familiar with emergency procedures.
Additional Fire Safety Strategies
- Develop a fire escape plan that includes clear evacuation routes and a designated meeting point.
- Keep flammable materials away from heat sources, maintaining at least a one-meter clearance from stoves, heaters, and open flames.
- Review fire risks and emergency procedures regularly.
- Educate children, elderly family members, and individuals with disabilities on fire safety and evacuation protocols.
Final Thoughts: Stay Prepared, Stay Safe
Fires can happen anywhere, but understanding the classification of fire types and having the right fire-fighting tools can save lives and property.
Key Takeaways:
- Learn the six fire classes and how to deal with them.
- Keep the right extinguisher for your home, workplace, or property.
- Stay informed about fire safety regulations and prevention methods.
- Invest in fire pumps, hoses, and protective gear to prepare for emergencies.
Need fire-fighting gear? Check out Chainsaw Spares for top-quality pumps, hoses, and fire safety equipment. Don’t wait until it’s too late—be fire-ready today!
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