Which agent is associated with Class B fire extinguishers?

The agent associated with Class B fire extinguishers is specifically designed to combat fires that involve flammable liquids, such as gasoline, oil, paint, and solvents. Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is effective for Class B fires because it displaces oxygen in the area, effectively suffocating the fire. It does this without leaving any residue, making it particularly useful in settings where cleanup of the extinguishing agent is a concern, such as in kitchens or areas containing electrical equipment.

Class B fires require agents that can effectively interrupt the combustion process and prevent re-ignition. Carbon Dioxide is effective at cooling and suffocating the fire, as it reduces the available oxygen, which is necessary for combustion to continue.

In contrast, water is unsuitable for Class B fires as it can spread the burning liquid. Foam is also a good agent for Class B fires, but it is not as commonly recognized as CO2 for this specific class. Dry chemicals like those found in multipurpose extinguishers are also effective against Class B, but they typically contain a different type of chemical agent compared to CO2.