What type of fire extinguisher is suitable for burning metals?

Class D fire extinguishers are specifically designed for fires involving combustible metals, such as magnesium, potassium, and sodium. These types of metals can ignite and burn at extremely high temperatures, often reacting violently with water or common extinguishing agents used for Class A (ordinary combustibles like wood and paper), Class B (flammable liquids), and Class C (electrical fires) fires.

Class D extinguishers typically contain materials such as sodium chloride, graphite, or other dry powder agents that smother the fire or separate the metal from the oxygen that fuels combustion. This ensures a safe and effective response to metal fires, preventing further reactions and allowing for control of the situation. Understanding the specific classes of fire extinguishers is crucial for effective safety management in environments where different types of materials are handled.