Which materials are associated with Class A fire extinguishers?

Class A fire extinguishers are specifically designed to combat fires that involve ordinary combustible materials. These materials typically include wood, paper, plastics, and textiles, which are common in residential and commercial environments. When these materials ignite, they produce a flame that creates a large volume of burning debris and can lead to rapid fire spread. Therefore, Class A extinguishers use water or other agents that cool and extinguish the flames effectively by targeting these types of materials.

In contrast, other categories of fires, such as those involving electrical equipment or flammable liquids, require different types of extinguishing agents. For example, fires involving electrical equipment necessitate non-conductive agents to prevent electrocution, while combustible liquids require extinguishers classified for Class B fires that can smother flames or remove oxygen from the combustion process. Hence, the specific focus of Class A extinguishers on wood, paper, plastics, and textiles makes this option the correct choice for materials associated with them.