Which type of fire extinguisher should be used on combustible metal fires?

Choosing the appropriate fire extinguisher for combustible metal fires is crucial for effective and safe firefighting. A Class D extinguisher is specifically designed for use on fires involving combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, and sodium. These types of fires can burn extremely hot and require special extinguishing agents that do not react with the metals. Class D extinguishers contain dry powder agents that can smother or chemically interrupt the combustion process, effectively containing the fire without exacerbating it.

For context, Class A extinguishers are appropriate for ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and textiles, while Class B extinguishers are used for flammable liquids and gases. Class C extinguishers are meant for electrical fires. None of these classifications are suitable for metal fires, as the wrong type of extinguisher could lead to dangerous reactions or might not effectively suppress the fire. Thus, knowing the right extinguisher type is vital for safety in environments where combustible metals are present.