Fires involving combustible metals require which class of fire extinguisher?

Fires involving combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, and sodium, are classified as Class D fires. This classification is essential because combustible metals burn at extremely high temperatures and can react violently with water and other extinguishing agents. Class D fire extinguishers are specifically designed to smother and cool these types of fires through unique agents that do not react with the burning metal.

Using an inappropriate class of extinguisher, such as Class A, B, or C, could exacerbate the situation. For example, using water from a Class A extinguisher on a metal fire could lead to an explosive reaction, while Class B extinguishers, designed for flammable liquids, and Class C extinguishers, meant for electrical fires, will also not be effective against combustible metals. Thus, the correct choice is Class D, reflecting its specialized capability to manage such hazardous fires safely.