What is a key characteristic of Class D fires?

Class D fires involve combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, or sodium. A defining characteristic of these fires is that they burn at extremely high temperatures, often exceeding 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit (650 degrees Celsius). This high heat is due to the exothermic chemical reactions that occur when these metals ignite.

The difficulty in extinguishing Class D fires arises from their intense heat and chemical nature. Water, for instance, reacts violently with many of these metals, making it an ineffective and dangerous extinguishing agent. Instead, special dry powder extinguishing agents are typically used to smother the flames and inhibit the chemical reactions that fuel the fire.

This distinction is crucial for firefighters and anyone involved in firefighting operations, as understanding the behavior of Class D fires helps in selecting the appropriate extinguishing methods and ensures the safety of personnel and equipment during firefighting efforts.