Interview Questions for Fire Suppression Tactics

Fires are classified into different classes based on the type of fuel involved, requiring specific suppression agents for effective control. Understanding these classes is crucial for selecting the right extinguisher or suppression system.

• Class A: These fires involve ordinary combustible materials like wood, paper, cloth, and plastics. Water is typically the most effective agent, as it cools the fuel and prevents reignition. However, foam and some dry chemical agents can also be effective.
• Class B: Class B fires involve flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil, grease, and solvents. Suppression focuses on interrupting the chain reaction. Foam, carbon dioxide (CO2), and dry chemical agents are particularly effective here, as they smother the fire by displacing oxygen.
• Class C: Class C fires involve energized electrical equipment. Never use water on these fires due to the risk of electrocution! CO2 and dry chemical extinguishers are the preferred agents, as they are non-conductive.
• Class D: These fires involve combustible metals such as magnesium, titanium, and sodium. These fires require specialized extinguishing agents, often dry powders, designed to interrupt the chemical reaction and prevent reignition. Using water can exacerbate the situation.
• Class K: Class K fires involve cooking oils and greases in commercial kitchens. Wet chemical agents are specifically designed for this type of fire, as they saponify (form soap) with the cooking oil, effectively suppressing the fire. Never use water on these fires.

For example, a kitchen fire involving cooking oil (Class K) would require a wet chemical extinguisher, whereas a fire in a wood-framed building (Class A) could be tackled with water.

The PASS method is a simple yet effective mnemonic for using a fire extinguisher safely and efficiently. It stands for:

• P – Pull: Pull the pin on the extinguisher. This releases the locking mechanism.
• A – Aim: Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire. Directing the extinguishing agent at the flames will only temporarily disrupt the fire; aiming at the base will cool the fuel source and eliminate the fire more effectively.
• S – Squeeze: Squeeze the lever slowly and steadily to discharge the extinguishing agent.
• S – Sweep: Sweep the nozzle from side to side, covering the base of the fire, until it is extinguished. Continue to monitor the area for re-ignition.

Imagine a small grease fire in a kitchen. You would pull the pin, aim at the base of the flames, squeeze the lever, and sweep the nozzle across the burning grease until the fire is out. Always ensure you have a safe escape route before attempting to extinguish a fire.

While water is an effective extinguishing agent for Class A fires, it has several limitations:

• Ineffective on Class B, C, D, and K fires: Water is not suitable for flammable liquids, energized electrical equipment, combustible metals, or cooking oils.
• Can cause damage: Water can cause significant damage to property through water damage, especially in sensitive environments like electronic equipment rooms.
• Can spread flammable liquids: In some instances, water can inadvertently spread flammable liquids, potentially enlarging the fire.
• May cause steam explosions: Applying water to very hot materials can cause steam explosions, which pose a safety hazard.
• Electrical hazards: The conductivity of water presents a severe risk of electrocution when used on energized electrical equipment.

For example, using water on a grease fire would likely spread the burning oil, potentially increasing the fire’s intensity and size. Understanding these limitations is vital for selecting the appropriate extinguishing agent.

Foam suppression relies on several principles to extinguish fires:

• Smothering: Foam forms a blanket over the surface of the fuel, preventing oxygen from reaching the fire and interrupting the combustion process.
• Cooling: Water in the foam contributes to cooling the fuel, reducing its temperature and minimizing the risk of reignition.
• Separation: Foam separates the fuel from the heat source, further inhibiting the combustion reaction.
• Type Selection: Different types of foam (e.g., AFFF, protein, fluoroprotein) are used depending on the type of fuel and the fire’s characteristics.

Imagine a large fuel spill fire. Foam is deployed to create a blanket over the burning fuel, cutting off the oxygen supply and cooling the fuel simultaneously, effectively suppressing the fire.

Sprinkler systems are automatic fire suppression systems designed to control or extinguish fires. They operate by detecting heat and releasing water through sprinkler heads onto the fire.

• Heat Detection: Most systems use heat-sensitive elements within the sprinkler heads, which melt or activate at a predefined temperature, releasing water.
• Water Distribution: Water is supplied through a network of pipes, leading to sprinkler heads strategically positioned throughout a building.
• Early Suppression: The primary purpose is to contain a fire in its early stages, preventing its spread and minimizing damage.

However, sprinkler systems have limitations:

• Water Damage: The release of water can cause substantial water damage, impacting property and belongings.
• Malfunction: System failure due to obstructions, corrosion, or improper maintenance can render them ineffective.
• Not effective against all fire classes: Sprinklers are primarily effective against Class A fires. They may not be sufficient for Class B or other types of fires requiring specialized agents.
• Frozen pipes: In cold climates, freezing of water in the pipes can cause system failure.

For instance, a sprinkler system might effectively suppress a small fire in an office, but a large, rapidly spreading fire might overwhelm its capacity, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and appropriate fire safety plans.

Various fire detection systems exist, each with different sensing mechanisms and applications.

• Heat Detectors: These detect excessive heat in an area. They can be fixed temperature (activating at a specific temperature) or rate-of-rise (activating when the temperature rises rapidly). They are inexpensive and reliable for many applications.
• Smoke Detectors: These sense the presence of smoke particles in the air. They can be ionization (detecting small particles) or photoelectric (detecting larger particles). They are highly sensitive and effective for detecting smoldering fires, but can be susceptible to false alarms from dust or steam.
• Flame Detectors: These detect the infrared or ultraviolet radiation emitted by flames. They are effective in detecting fast-growing fires, especially in areas where smoke detectors might be less effective, but can be more expensive.
• Gas Detectors: These detect the presence of specific flammable gases in the air, commonly used in industrial settings or areas where flammable gases are stored.

The choice of detection system depends on the specific hazards and requirements of a location. For example, a kitchen might use heat detectors and smoke detectors, while a chemical storage facility might require a combination of smoke, heat, and gas detectors.

A fire alarm system comprises several key components working together to detect, signal, and alert occupants of a fire:

• Detection Devices: Smoke detectors, heat detectors, flame detectors, or a combination, depending on the risks present.
• Control Panel: The central unit that receives signals from detectors and initiates the alarm.
• Notification Appliances: These provide audible and/or visual warnings to alert occupants, including horns, bells, strobes, and speakers for voice announcements.
• Power Supply: A primary and backup power supply ensures the system operates even during a power outage. This is usually a battery system.
• Wiring and Cabling: Connects all components, carrying signals and power throughout the system.
• Supervisory System: Monitors the status of the system, checking for faults and ensuring its proper operation.

All these components are interconnected to create a comprehensive and reliable fire warning system, enabling rapid evacuation and emergency response. Regular maintenance and testing are crucial for ensuring the system’s reliability and effectiveness.

Pre-planning in fire suppression is paramount; it’s like rehearsing a play before opening night. Without it, responding to a fire becomes chaotic and inefficient. Effective pre-planning involves a thorough understanding of the building’s layout, potential hazards, occupant characteristics, and available escape routes. This allows firefighters to develop tailored strategies, minimizing response time and maximizing the chance of a successful outcome. For example, a pre-plan for a high-rise building would detail the location of fire pumps, stairwells, and potential obstacles, helping teams quickly locate the fire and establish safe access points. This detailed knowledge translates to faster evacuation and more effective fire containment.

Risk assessment in fire safety is the cornerstone of proactive fire protection. It’s like a doctor’s checkup for your building, identifying potential weaknesses before they become a problem. This process involves systematically evaluating the building’s structure, contents, and occupancy to identify hazards that could lead to a fire and assess their potential severity. For instance, a warehouse storing flammable materials would have a higher fire risk than an office building. This assessment informs the development of preventative measures such as fire detection systems, sprinkler systems, and employee training programs tailored to the specific risks identified.

Legal requirements for fire safety in commercial buildings vary by jurisdiction but generally include adherence to building codes, regular inspections, and maintenance of fire safety systems. These regulations aim to ensure adequate fire prevention and suppression measures are in place. This often involves installing and maintaining fire detection and alarm systems, sprinklers, fire extinguishers, and emergency lighting. Building owners are legally responsible for ensuring compliance, and failure to do so can result in significant fines and legal repercussions. Regular fire drills and employee training are also usually mandated to ensure occupants know how to react in case of a fire.

Identifying potential fire hazards is like a detective’s work; it requires a keen eye and systematic approach. It begins with a thorough visual inspection of the building, paying close attention to electrical wiring, heating systems, storage of flammable materials, and housekeeping practices. For example, overloaded electrical outlets, frayed wires, improperly stored chemicals, and blocked exits are all common fire hazards. Beyond visual inspection, reviewing past incident reports, maintenance records, and occupancy permits helps to identify recurring problems or potential weaknesses in the building’s fire safety systems.

Fire investigation is a meticulous process, akin to solving a complex puzzle. It begins with securing the scene to prevent further damage and preserve evidence. The investigator then documents the scene through photography, videography, and detailed sketches. This is followed by a systematic search for the origin and cause of the fire, analyzing burn patterns, witness statements, and examining any potential ignition sources. Evidence is collected and analyzed, often involving laboratory testing. The final report summarizes the findings, outlining the cause and origin of the fire and providing recommendations to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Compartmentalization in fire safety design is like creating firebreaks within a building. It involves dividing a structure into smaller, self-contained areas using fire-resistant walls, floors, and doors. This limits the spread of fire and smoke, giving occupants more time to escape and firefighters more time to contain the blaze. Imagine a building divided into separate apartments; if a fire starts in one apartment, the compartmentalization prevents it from quickly spreading to others. This significantly improves the overall safety of the building by buying crucial time and reducing the scale of the emergency.

Fire suppression systems vary widely depending on the type of building and the hazards present. Common types include:

• Water-based systems: Sprinklers and fire hoses are the most prevalent, using water to cool and extinguish fires.
• Foam systems: Effective on flammable liquid fires, these systems use foam to create a barrier that prevents reignition.
• Gas suppression systems: Used in sensitive environments like server rooms, these systems utilize inert gases like CO2 or Argon to displace oxygen and smother the fire.
• Wet chemical systems: Designed for grease and oil fires in kitchens, these systems use a special chemical agent to suppress the flames.

The choice of system depends on a careful risk assessment, considering the type of fire hazards, the building’s occupancy, and the potential impact on people and property.

Fire suppression agents each have unique properties, leading to both advantages and disadvantages. Let’s look at a few common types:

• Water:
  • Advantages: Abundant, relatively inexpensive, effective at cooling fires, environmentally benign (excluding additives).
  • Disadvantages: Can cause water damage, ineffective on Class D (metal) fires, may conduct electricity, can be dangerous in high-voltage environments.
• Foam:
  • Advantages: Effective on Class A (ordinary combustibles) and B (flammable liquids) fires, creates a vapor barrier to prevent reignition, relatively low water damage compared to water alone.
  • Disadvantages: Can be expensive, less effective on Class C (electrical) fires, requires specialized equipment.
• Dry Chemical:
  • Advantages: Effective on Class A, B, and C fires, relatively quick knockdown, leaves minimal residue.
  • Disadvantages: Can be corrosive, can damage some sensitive electronics, requires replacement after discharge.
• CO2 (Carbon Dioxide):
  • Advantages: Leaves no residue, electrically non-conductive, effective on Class B and C fires.
  • Disadvantages: Can displace oxygen, causing asphyxiation, ineffective on Class A fires, requires careful ventilation after use.
• Halon (Halocarbons):
  • Advantages: Extremely effective on Class A, B, and C fires, fast extinguishing agent, leaves minimal residue.
  • Disadvantages: Extremely damaging to the ozone layer (mostly phased out), expensive.

The choice of suppression agent depends heavily on the type of fire, the environment, and potential risks to personnel and property. For example, water would be unsuitable for an electrical fire, while CO2 might be preferable for a server room fire to minimize water damage.

A thorough fire safety inspection involves a systematic evaluation of a building’s fire safety measures. It’s not a simple checklist; it requires keen observation and understanding of fire dynamics.

1. Building Exterior: Check for clear fire exits, access roads for emergency vehicles, proper signage, and the condition of exterior fire escapes.
2. Building Interior: Inspect fire alarms, sprinkler systems (including heads and pipes), fire extinguishers (checking pressure and condition), emergency lighting, and smoke detectors in all required areas. Verify that fire doors are functional and self-closing.
3. Electrical Systems: Look for overloaded circuits, frayed wiring, improper grounding, and signs of overheating. Outdated wiring is a major concern.
4. Storage Practices: Check for proper storage of flammable materials, ensuring compliance with safety regulations. Overcrowding and blocked exits are critical issues.
5. Housekeeping: Accumulation of combustible materials, such as waste or debris, significantly increases the risk of fire. A clean environment is crucial.
6. Emergency Procedures: Review evacuation plans, ensure clear signage, and confirm that employees or residents are familiar with the procedures.

Documentation is vital. Every finding, including deficiencies and corrective actions, should be meticulously recorded. A good inspection will identify potential hazards and recommend improvements to minimize the risk of a fire.

Residential fires often stem from preventable causes. The most common include:

• Cooking Accidents: Unattended cooking is a leading cause, often involving grease fires or leaving food cooking on the stove for too long.
• Heating Equipment: Faulty or improperly maintained heaters, fireplaces, and chimneys are frequent culprits. Space heaters, in particular, need careful placement and monitoring.
• Electrical Malfunctions: Overloaded circuits, faulty wiring, damaged appliances, and extension cord misuse can lead to electrical fires.
• Smoking Materials: Carelessly discarded cigarettes are a significant cause of residential fires, especially when furniture or bedding is nearby.
• Candles and Other Open Flames: Unattended candles, especially in areas with flammable materials, are a serious fire hazard.

Many residential fires could be avoided through simple preventative measures, such as regular equipment maintenance, safe cooking practices, and responsible use of heating and electrical appliances.

Industrial settings present unique fire risks, often involving larger quantities of flammable materials and specialized equipment. Common causes include:

• Welding and Cutting Operations: Sparks from welding or cutting can ignite flammable materials if proper precautions aren’t taken.
• Flammable Liquids and Gases: Improper handling, storage, or leaks of flammable materials represent a high-risk factor in many industrial settings.
• Machinery Malfunctions: Overheating machinery, faulty electrical components, and friction can ignite fires.
• Combustible Dusts: Many industrial processes generate combustible dust, which can form explosive mixtures in the air.
• Spontaneous Combustion: Certain materials can undergo spontaneous combustion when exposed to oxygen, especially in the presence of heat or moisture.

Industrial fire prevention requires stringent safety protocols, regular inspections, employee training, and appropriate engineering controls to manage these hazards. The scale of potential damage in industrial settings necessitates proactive risk mitigation.

Evacuation procedures are paramount in fire safety. They represent the final line of defense, aiming to safely remove occupants from a burning building before the fire spreads or becomes uncontrollable. Effective evacuation procedures:

• Clearly Defined Routes: Designated escape routes, well-marked and free from obstructions, are essential.
• Assembly Points: Pre-determined assembly points allow for a quick headcount and ensure everyone is accounted for.
• Training and Drills: Regular fire drills familiarize occupants with escape routes and procedures, making them more effective during a real emergency.
• Communication Systems: Alarms, public address systems, and other communication methods are vital for timely and clear warnings.
• Assistance for Vulnerable Individuals: Special considerations should be made for the elderly, disabled, and those who may need assistance during evacuation.

Evacuation planning is crucial and requires consideration of building layout, occupancy levels, and potential obstacles. Failure to properly plan and practice evacuation procedures can have devastating consequences.

Handling a fire emergency involves a systematic approach prioritizing safety:

1. Activate the Alarm: Immediately activate the building’s fire alarm system to alert others.
2. Evacuate the Area: Follow established evacuation procedures, assisting others if possible. Never attempt to fight a fire that is beyond your capabilities.
3. Call Emergency Services: Contact emergency services (911 or your local equivalent) and provide accurate information about the location and nature of the fire.
4. Assist in Evacuation: If safe to do so, assist others in evacuating the area, ensuring everyone is accounted for.
5. Do Not Re-enter: Once evacuated, do not re-enter the building until authorities deem it safe.

Early detection and rapid response are vital. Knowing your building’s fire safety plan and practicing evacuation procedures regularly significantly improve the chances of a safe outcome.

Regular maintenance of fire suppression systems is not merely recommended—it’s essential for ensuring their effectiveness in an emergency. Neglecting maintenance can lead to catastrophic consequences.

• Fire Alarms: Regular testing ensures functionality and timely alerts. This includes checking batteries, testing the alarm’s sound, and inspecting connections.
• Sprinkler Systems: Regular inspections, including flow tests, pressure checks, and visual examinations of heads and pipes, are crucial to prevent malfunctions.
• Fire Extinguishers: Periodic inspections check for pressure, leaks, and damage. Extinguishers need to be recharged or replaced as needed.
• Fire Doors: Regular inspections ensure proper functionality, including self-closing mechanisms and the integrity of seals.
• Emergency Lighting: Regular testing is required to guarantee reliable illumination during power outages.

Maintenance schedules should be determined by local regulations and the specific systems installed. A proactive maintenance approach significantly increases the reliability of fire suppression systems and minimizes the risk of fire-related incidents.

Safety when handling fire suppression agents is paramount. It’s not just about extinguishing the fire; it’s about protecting yourself and others from potential hazards associated with the agents themselves. Many agents, while effective at extinguishing fires, possess inherent risks.

• Respiratory Protection: Many agents, like dry chemical powders or halons (where still permitted), can irritate the lungs or be toxic if inhaled. Always use appropriate respiratory protection, such as self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) or air-purifying respirators, as recommended by the agent’s Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
• Eye Protection: The forceful expulsion of extinguishing agents or the potential for splashing requires eye protection, such as safety glasses or goggles, to prevent irritation or injury.
• Skin Protection: Some agents can cause skin irritation or burns. Wear appropriate protective clothing, including gloves and coveralls, especially when dealing with large-scale suppression efforts or corrosive agents.
• Agent-Specific Hazards: Each fire suppression agent has unique hazards. The SDS provides comprehensive details on potential health effects, handling precautions, and first aid measures. Always consult the SDS before handling any agent.
• Environmental Considerations: Some agents, particularly halons and certain types of foams, have adverse environmental impacts. Proper disposal and handling are crucial to minimize environmental damage. Understand the environmental regulations in your area.

For example, during a training exercise involving a CO2 extinguisher, we always emphasize the potential for frostbite due to the extreme cold of the discharged agent. Always prioritize safety first.

Fire suppression equipment varies greatly depending on the type and size of fire. The most common types include:

• Portable Fire Extinguishers: These are handheld devices suitable for small, incipient fires. They are classified by the type of fire they are effective against (A, B, C, D, K) and by their extinguishing agent (water, foam, dry chemical, CO2, etc.).
• Fire Hose and Hydrants: Used for larger fires, requiring a water supply and trained personnel to operate. They provide a sustained flow of water to control and extinguish the fire.
• Fixed Suppression Systems: These systems are permanently installed and automatically activated upon detection of a fire. Common types include sprinkler systems (water), foam systems, and gaseous suppression systems (e.g., CO2, inert gases).
• Special Suppression Systems: Certain hazards, like flammable liquids or electrical fires, require specialized systems such as deluge systems, foam proportioners, or Halon-replacement agents (though Halon is largely phased out due to its ozone-depleting effects).

Imagine a kitchen fire. A small, class A fire could be handled with a water-based extinguisher. But a large warehouse fire would necessitate the use of fire hoses and hydrants, perhaps even a sprinkler system.

Selecting the right fire extinguisher involves understanding the fire hazard class and the size of the fire. The fire class identifies the type of combustible material: Class A (ordinary combustibles), Class B (flammable liquids), Class C (electrical fires), Class D (combustible metals), and Class K (kitchen fires involving cooking oils).

The extinguisher’s rating indicates its capacity to extinguish a fire of a specific size. A larger fire requires a larger extinguisher. For example, a 2A10BC extinguisher can handle a fire twice as large as a 1A10BC extinguisher.

Steps to determine appropriate extinguisher:

1. Identify the fire hazard: What type of material is likely to burn?
2. Determine the fire class: Based on the material, classify the fire (A, B, C, D, or K).
3. Assess the fire size: Estimate the size of the potential fire.
4. Select an extinguisher: Choose an extinguisher rated for the appropriate fire class and size. Consider using multiple extinguishers for large potential fires.
5. Ensure proper placement and maintenance: Place extinguishers in easily accessible locations and have them regularly inspected and maintained.

Imagine a small office with paper and electronic equipment. A 2A10BC extinguisher would likely be sufficient. However, a large industrial facility with flammable solvents would need several larger, appropriately rated extinguishers, potentially including class B agents.

Fire spread, or fire propagation, is the process by which a fire expands from its point of origin. Several factors influence its rate and extent:

• Fuel Source: The type, quantity, and arrangement of combustible materials greatly impact fire spread. More fuel, closer together, will cause faster spread.
• Oxygen Availability: Sufficient oxygen is essential for combustion. Ventilation patterns significantly affect oxygen supply to the fire.
• Heat Source: The intensity of the heat source determines how quickly the fire will spread. Higher temperatures lead to faster spread.
• Conduction, Convection, Radiation: Heat transfer mechanisms play crucial roles. Conduction transmits heat through direct contact, convection via movement of heated gases, and radiation through electromagnetic waves.

Controlling fire spread involves disrupting these factors. Methods include:

• Fuel Removal: Removing combustible materials from the fire’s vicinity limits its potential fuel supply.
• Oxygen Deprivation: Techniques such as smothering or using extinguishing agents that displace oxygen slow down or stop the fire.
• Cooling: Reducing the temperature through the application of water or other cooling agents can slow or extinguish the fire.
• Firebreaks: Creating barriers, such as cleared areas, to prevent the fire from spreading to other areas.

For example, in a forest fire, controlled burns can be used to create firebreaks. This removes fuel in a controlled manner, preventing the spread of the larger, uncontrolled fire.

Fire containment focuses on preventing the fire’s spread beyond a defined area. Several methods exist:

• Water Streams: Direct application of water to cool the fire and prevent further ignition.
• Foam Application: Suppressing the release of flammable vapors from liquid fuels and creating a barrier.
• Earthworks: Digging trenches or building berms to create physical barriers.
• Structural Protection: Protecting adjacent structures using fire-resistant materials or creating protective spaces.
• Strategic Evacuation: Removing people and equipment from danger zones.
• Backfires: In wildland firefighting, controlled burns ahead of the main fire to remove fuel.

Think of a building fire. Firefighters might use water streams to cool the fire’s exterior, preventing it from spreading to nearby structures. They might also create firebreaks to prevent the fire from extending within the building.

Suppression in confined spaces poses unique challenges due to limited access, poor ventilation, and potential for hazardous atmospheres. Key challenges include:

• Limited Access: Reaching the fire and deploying equipment can be difficult and slow down response times.
• Ventilation Issues: Poor ventilation can lead to oxygen depletion, build-up of toxic gases, and rapid fire spread.
• Visibility: Smoke and reduced light significantly impair visibility, hindering rescue and suppression efforts.
• Heat Buildup: Confined spaces trap heat, making it extremely dangerous for firefighters.
• Hazardous Atmospheres: Fires in confined spaces can generate toxic gases and deplete oxygen, creating lethal environments.

Strategies for mitigating these challenges include:

• Proper ventilation: Creating controlled ventilation to clear smoke and introduce fresh air is crucial.
• Use of SCBA: Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus is essential in confined spaces due to the hazardous atmospheres.
• Thermal imaging cameras: Improve visibility in smoke-filled environments.
• Careful entry and exit procedures: Establish clear procedures to ensure firefighter safety.
• Specialized equipment: Using equipment designed for confined-space operations.

For instance, during a shipboard fire, the limited space, potential for structural collapse, and the presence of flammable materials require highly coordinated efforts and specialized equipment and procedures.

Fires involving hazardous materials (HAZMAT) require specialized knowledge, equipment, and procedures. The primary goal is to protect responders and the environment. Before approaching any HAZMAT fire:

1. Identify the hazardous material: Determine the specific material involved and its potential hazards (flammability, toxicity, reactivity).
2. Consult the SDS: Access the Safety Data Sheet for the material to learn about its properties and appropriate response techniques.
3. Establish safety zones: Create evacuation zones based on the material’s properties and potential spread.
4. Utilize specialized equipment: Deploy appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and firefighting equipment designed for the specific hazard.
5. Contain the spill: If possible, contain the spill to prevent further spread.
6. Use appropriate extinguishing agents: Not all extinguishing agents are suitable for all hazardous materials. Using the wrong agent can worsen the situation. Water, for example, should not be used on many flammable liquid fires.
7. Evacuate and shelter-in-place: Evacuate personnel from the area if safe; otherwise, shelter in place and await instructions from HAZMAT teams.

A fire involving a flammable solvent, for example, requires a different approach than a fire involving a reactive metal. The SDS for the specific solvent will guide the response, likely recommending foam or dry chemical agents and specifying PPE needs. Improper handling could lead to larger explosions or more severe health consequences.