Which class of fire extinguisher is used for ordinary solid combustibles such as wood and paper?

The class of fire extinguisher designated for ordinary solid combustibles like wood and paper is specifically classified as Ordinary Solid Combustibles. This classification includes materials that are easily combustible and are commonly found in most environments.

Fire extinguishers that are designed for this class typically use water or a multipurpose dry chemical as their extinguishing agents. The primary mechanism of action is to cool the material and eliminate the heat element of the fire triangle, effectively extinguishing the flames.

Using the correct class of fire extinguisher is crucial because other types may not be effective on ordinary combustibles. For instance, flammable liquid extinguishers are designed for liquid fires and would not effectively suppress a fire involving wood or paper. Similarly, extinguishers for electrical fires are intended for hazards involving live electrical equipment, and metal extinguishers are tailored for combustible metals, making them unsuitable for ordinary combustibles. Thus, utilizing the appropriate extinguisher ensures not only effective fire suppression but also safety during firefighting efforts.