ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Fire classes

Okay kiddo, so when we talk about fire classes, we're really talking about different types of fires. Fires can be caused by different things and they need to be put out in different ways. There are four main fire classes:

Class A fires are caused by things like wood, paper, and clothes. These fires are put out with water because it takes away the heat that the fire needs to keep going.

Class B fires are caused by things like gasoline, oil, and other liquids. These fires are put out with special fluids called fire extinguishers that are designed to smother the flames and cut off the oxygen that the fire needs to keep going.

Class C fires are caused by things like electrical equipment. These fires are put out with special fire extinguishers that don't conduct electricity and can put out the fire without causing any harm to the people trying to put it out.

Class D fires are caused by things like metals, such as magnesium or sodium. These types of fires require a special type of fire extinguisher that is designed to cut off the chemical reaction that's causing the fire.

So, remember kiddo, there are four main fire classes, and each one requires a special way to put it out. It's important to know which type of fire you're dealing with so that you can use the right tools and materials to put it out safely.
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