Combustible metals belong to which fire class?

• A. Class A
• B. Class B
• C. Class C
• D. Class D

Answer: (D)

Metal fires require a different approach because these fuels burn in a way that standard extinguishing methods can’t safely handle. Combustible metals such as magnesium, titanium, sodium, and potassium form fires that are categorized as Class D. This classification reflects the need for specialized extinguishing agents—dry powders designed for metals—that absorb heat and smother the flames without reacting with the molten metal. Water and many other agents can trigger violent reactions with certain metals, making them dangerous to use. That’s why metal fires aren’t treated as Class A (ordinary combustibles), Class B (flammable liquids), or Class C (electrical).