Water type extinguishers are ideally used for which class of fires?

Water type extinguishers are designed specifically for Class A fires, which involve ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, cloth, and some plastics. Water is effective in extinguishing these types of fires because it cools the burning material and reduces the temperature to below the ignition point. By applying water, the flames are smothered, and the fire can be put out as the burning materials are cooled sufficiently.

Using water type extinguishers on Class B fires (flammable liquids like gasoline or oil) or Class C fires (electrical fires) can be extremely dangerous. Water can cause flammable liquids to spread and can conduct electricity, increasing the risk of electrocution in the case of electrical fires. Class D fires involve combustible metals, which require special extinguishing agents and shouldn't be extinguished with water. Therefore, the application of water extinguishers is restricted to Class A fires to ensure safety and effectiveness in firefighting.