What materials typically fall under Class A fire classification?

Class A fire classification encompasses ordinary combustibles, which include materials such as wood, paper, cloth, and certain types of plastics. These materials are characterized by their ability to ignite and sustain combustion when exposed to heat or flames. The commonality among these materials is that they primarily produce ash upon burning, which is a key aspect of Class A fires.

Understanding this classification is crucial for effective fire response and suppression strategies, as different classes of fires require different extinguishing agents. For example, Class A fires are typically extinguished using water or water-based solutions, which cool the burning materials and reduce the fire's temperature. This is in contrast to other fire classifications that require specific types of extinguishing agents tailored to the nature of the burning materials.