Which type of fire extinguisher would you use for paper fires?

Using a fire extinguisher classified as type A is appropriate for paper fires. This classification is specifically designed to combat flames that originate from ordinary combustible materials, which include wood, paper, cloth, trash, and many plastics.

Type A extinguishers typically contain water or foam, which works effectively for cooling burning materials and extinguishing the flames. The extinguishing agent helps to eliminate the heat component of the fire triangle, thus putting out the fire effectively.

In contrast, the other extinguisher types serve different purposes: Type B is meant for flammable liquids, such as gasoline or oils, while Type C is used for electrical fires. Type K is specifically designed for kitchen fires involving cooking oils and fats. By using a type A extinguisher for paper fires, you are utilizing the right tool that targets the specific nature of the burning material.