Final answer:
True, many fire extinguishers are multipurpose and can be used on various types of fires. They contain solutions able to cover and extinguish burning materials, although some older chemicals are no longer recommended due to safety and environmental concerns.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is true that many fire extinguishers can be used on more than one class of fire, earning them the designation of multipurpose extinguishers. These extinguishers often contain a fluorinated solution or dry chemical that can spread across a burning surface to effectively extinguish the fire. However, some substances used in fire extinguishers, like bromine-containing compounds, while effective, are toxic and have environmental impacts, leading scientists to research safer alternatives.
It is important to note that while multipurpose fire extinguishers are versatile, some older fire-fighting substances, such as those found in certain fire extinguisher systems or used with foaming plastics, have been phased out due to safety or environmental concerns. For larger-scale fires, especially those involving organic liquids, foaming agents are commonly used for their ability to suppress fire.
Firefighters are tasked with the control and extinguishment of municipal fires, where they protect life and property. In addition to traditional fire extinguishers, they also use more advanced systems and techniques depending on the nature of the fire they are combating.