Final answer:
An extinguisher labeled as 10A:100B:C is suitable for Class A fires (wood and paper), Class B fires (flammable liquids), and Class C fires (electrical). The NFPA system rates fire hazards, and it's crucial to handle flammable chemicals carefully.
Step-by-step explanation:
An extinguisher that is labeled 10A:100B: C indicates that it is suitable for various types of fires including:
- a) wood and paper fires (Class A),
- b) flammable liquids (Class B), and
- c) electrical fires (Class C).
The National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA) 704 Hazard Identification System provides a standardized approach for identifying fire hazards. The first number '10' on the label represents the extinguisher's effectiveness against Class A fires (like wood or paper), with each numbered unit being equivalent to 1.25 gallons of water - thus, a '10A' extinguisher equals 12.5 gallons of water. The second number '100' is an indicator of the extinguishing capability for Class B fires in square feet. The letter 'C' signifies the extinguisher can be safely used on electrical fires.
It's important to follow instructions carefully when handling flammable chemicals and to use firefighting substances like fluorinated solutions that can effectively cover and extinguish fires. Furthermore, certain engines use different fuel/oxidant mixtures to create flames of different temperatures and uses, as seen with some that produce a green flame and others a yellow flame.