Answer :
Final answer:
For Class A fires involving materials like wood and paper, water and fire extinguisher systems are effective. Foaming plastics fires are effectively put out by fluorinated solutions. Magnesium fires require a Class D dry chemical extinguisher or sand, as water and CO2 can worsen the fire.
Explanation:
Effective extinguishing agents for a class Alpha fire, commonly referred to as Class A fires involving ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and cloth, are water and fire extinguisher systems that can cool down the fire (for example, a water fire extinguisher). For fires involving foaming plastics, a fluorinated solution that can spread across the burning surface is used to extinguish the fire.
However, it is important to note that some agents such as dry-cleaning solvent and certain fire extinguishers, which were once used for fire suppression, are no longer recommended. Special consideration is needed for fires involving certain metals like magnesium; as magnesium burns with an intense flame and reacts violently with water and carbon dioxide, suitable extinguishing agents are Class D dry chemical fire extinguisher or sand.
