Class B fires are often more difficult to put out compared to other fire types. They can occur in homes, laboratories, and industrial settings. Unfortunately, many people don’t know what they are and how to put them out safely.

So, what exactly is a Class B fire? How dangerous is it? Can you put it out by yourself? 

In this article, we’ll talk about Class B fires, what causes them, and where they usually happen. We’ll also discuss how to prevent and put them out. 

What Are Class B Fires?

Class B fires are a type of fire that involves flammable liquids. These are items commonly found in homes, workshops, and industrial facilities. Common flammable liquids include cleaning products, lubricants, paint thinner, alcohol, gasoline, and ethanol. 

A Class B fire can start in many ways, including spills and leaks. For instance, if gasoline spills on the ground and someone accidentally strikes a match, it can instantly ignite. Similarly, many flammable liquids produce vapors that can be dangerous. If these vapors build up in a poorly ventilated, closed space and come into contact with a heat source, they can start a fire. Improper storage of flammable liquids can also trigger Class B fires. Storing them near heat sources, like stoves or space heaters, poses a higher fire risk. 

In addition, Class B fires are dangerous because they can spread quickly and produce intense heat. Once it starts, it can turn into a major fire in seconds, putting lives at risk and damaging properties. For instance, a Class B fire that starts in a garage filled with gasoline can engulf the whole house in minutes. The fire can also produce poisonous fumes, especially if it burns toxic materials along the way. 

Class B fires are more dangerous in industrial settings because they threaten the safety of workers and lead to explosions. The lawsuits companies will face if a worker gets injured or dies can lead to financial burdens and ruined reputations. 

While grease fires are more common in kitchens, Class B fires can occur there. For example, alcohol used in cooking can ignite if it spills out of the pan and into the open flame. Cleaning products used in the kitchen might spill and catch fire as well. 

Common Causes of Class B Fires

Causes of Class B fires can be found in homes, laboratories, factories, and other industrial settings. Knowing what fuels Class B fires lets you prevent or put them out safely. Here are the top causes of Class B fires: 

Gasoline

Gasoline is highly flammable and can ignite because of a tiny spark or open flame. Spills often occur when transferring or storing gasoline. For instance, someone might accidentally spill gasoline while filling a lawnmower. When someone uses a lighter nearby, a Class B fire can start. Storing gasoline in a shed or garage without proper ventilation also increases the risk of fire, especially if there’s a heat source nearby. 

Alcohol

Many types of alcohol, including drinking alcohol and rubbing alcohol, are used in houses, restaurants, and the like. They can quickly ignite when spilled near open flames or hot surfaces. For instance, if someone spills a bottle of cooking wine on a hot stovetop, a Class B fire can start. Similarly, a bottle of rubbing alcohol left near a space heater can ignite a fire. 

Cleaning Products

Many household and industrial cleaning products contain flammable liquids. For example, bleach and alcohol-based disinfectants can start a Class B fire. If someone uses them in a small, poorly ventilated room with a space heater running, a Class B fire can ignite. Improper storage of cleaning products, especially near heat sources, also poses fire risks. Find out how to store flammable liquids here. 

Aerosol Sprays 

Aerosol sprays, such as paints and hair sprays, are flammable. For instance, using spray paint too close to a stove or grill can lead to a Class B fire. Another example is using too much hairspray in a bathroom with poor ventilation, where heated styling tools can ignite the flammable vapors.

Kerosene

Kerosene is often used as a fuel for heaters and lamps. It is a common cause of Class B fires. For example, if someone fills a kerosene heater indoors and spills it on the floor, a Class B fire can occur. Plus, improperly stored kerosene containers can leak, leading to dangerous situations if they’re placed near heat sources.

Paint and Paint Thinners

Paint and paint thinners can release flammable vapors, especially when left open or improperly stored. For instance, if someone uses paint for a project in a garage and doesn’t seal the containers properly, a nearby electrical tool can ignite it. Additionally, improperly storing paint thinners can leak and ignite if there’s a heat source nearby. 

Where Do Class B Fires Occur?

Class B fires can happen just about anywhere, but there are specific locations where they often occur. Here are the most common places where Class B fires start: 

Kitchens

Kitchens are one of the most common locations for Class B fires. They’re filled with alcohol and cleaning agents. For example, spilling liquor on a hot burner can start a Class B fire.

Garages

Many garages contain gasoline, solvents, and paint. Imagine someone using a power tool in the garage while a can of gasoline sits nearby. The tool sparks and ignites the gasoline and starts a Class B fire. Know more 

Workshops

Like garages, workshops contain flammable liquids like paint. Without proper ventilation, these vapors build up in the air. For example, a worker uses an electric cutter, and sparks fly from the tool. Those sparks can ignite the vapors and start a Class B fire. 

Gas Stations

Gas stations are inherently fire-prone because of the large quantities of gasoline stored and transferred. Spills can lead to dangerous Class B fires, especially if heat sources are nearby. 

Industrial Settings

Factories or warehouses that handle large volumes of flammable liquids are prone to Class B fires. Improper storage or mishandling can lead to fires that spread rapidly and endanger workers and properties. 

How to Put Out Class B Fires

Responding quickly to Class B fires keeps your loved ones and property safe. Find out how to do it below: 

1. Stay Calm

Don’t panic if you’re dealing with a Class B fire. Take a deep breath and focus on the situation. Is the fire small and manageable? Are you confident in putting it out by yourself? If yes, follow the next steps in this guide. But if the fire is spreading fast or you feel unsafe, evacuate your house immediately. 

2. Use the Right Tools

If the fire is small, grab a fire blanket or a fire spray. 

Fire blankets are made from fire-resistant materials and are easy to use. Just put them over the fire to cut off its oxygen supply. They’re great for small Class B fires.

Fire sprays are smaller versions of fire extinguishers. However, they’re non-toxic, more lightweight, and easier to use. Just aim it at the base of the fire and spray side to side until the flames die.

3. Watch Out for Reignition

After the flames are out, check hot spots that might reignite. Make sure everything is completely cool before leaving the affected area. 

4. Evacuate if Needed

If you don’t have the right tools, the fire is getting out of control, or you feel unsafe, get out of the house or building immediately. Then, call 911 or your local fire department. Give them your location and the nature of the fire. 

How to Prevent Class B Fires

Knowing how to prevent Class B fires saves lives and properties. Here’s how to do it: 

1. Store Flammable Liquids Properly

Keep all flammable liquids, such as gasoline, cooking wine, and paint, in approved containers. Make sure they’re tightly sealed and stored in a cool, dry place away from heat sources.

2. Label Everything

Clearly label all containers and put warnings on them. This will help everyone know what they’re dealing with and remind them to handle flammable liquids with care.

3. Ventilate Your Space

Make sure that your garage, workshop, or workplace is well-ventilated. Open the windows or use fans to keep the air flowing. Doing this helps prevent flammable vapors from building up and reduces the risk of fire. 

4. Avoid Sparks and Flames

Keep flammable liquids away from sparks, open flames, or heat sources. Avoid using spark-creating tools like angle grinders and cutting torches near flammable liquids. 

5. Regularly Check Your Tools

Make it a habit to check your power tools to prevent them from malfunctioning and causing sparks. Look for signs of wear and tear, damage, and loose parts. If you notice anything off, get it repaired or replaced before using it again.

6. Clean Up Spills Immediately

Wipe flammable liquid spills right away. Use absorbent materials and throw them properly to avoid a Class B fire. 

7. Be Careful When Transferring Flammable Liquids

Use a funnel to pour flammable liquids without a mess. Never fill containers to the top and leave some space to prevent spills, especially if you’ll move them later. 

8. Throw Them Away Properly

Take used, expired, or old flammable liquids to a hazardous waste facility. If your local waste management office has guidelines on how to do it, follow them. Never throw flammable liquids with other trash or pour them down the drain.

Conclusion

Understanding Class B fires and knowing how to prevent and extinguish them keeps your loved ones and co-workers safe. Being proactive—like keeping flammable liquids away from heat sources and cleaning up spills—can reduce Class B fire risks. 

Having the right fire safety tools is important, too. Fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and fire sprays can help you handle small Class B fires before they get out of control. Whether you’re at home or work, being prepared makes a huge difference.