What is the recommended fire extinguishing agent for Class A fires?

The recommended fire extinguishing agent for Class A fires is water. Class A fires involve ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, cloth, and certain plastics. Water is effective in extinguishing these fires because it cools the burning materials below their ignition temperature and provides a means to suppress flames.

When water is applied, it absorbs heat and transforms into steam, which helps to displace oxygen and further suffocate the fire. In addition to its cooling properties, water is widely available and easy to use, making it a practical choice for most firefighting situations involving Class A materials.

Although other agents like foam, CO2, and dry chemical extinguishers may be effective for different types of fires (such as Class B or C), they do not have the same cooling effect on burning solids as water does. This makes water the most suitable and recommended extinguishing agent for Class A fires.