What type of extinguisher is recommended for ordinary combustibles like paper and wood?

A Class A fire extinguisher is specifically designed for use on ordinary combustibles such as paper, wood, cloth, trash, and many types of plastics. This type of extinguisher typically contains water or foam, which cools the burning material and extinguishes the fire by removing heat. The effectiveness of Class A extinguishers is rooted in their ability to suppress fires that involve solid combustible materials, making them the ideal choice for common household or workplace fires.

In contrast, a Class B extinguisher is used for flammable liquids like gasoline, grease, or oil, while a Class C extinguisher is intended for electrical fires involving live electrical equipment. A multi-purpose fire extinguisher may address multiple classes of fires (such as Class A, B, and C), but the best choice specifically for ordinary combustibles is the Class A extinguisher. This makes it essential to choose the right extinguisher based on the materials involved in a fire to ensure effective fire suppression.