Alberta Boilers Safety Association (ABSA) Practice Test

Which combination of extinguishing media is commonly used on fires?

1. Dry powder, foam, oxygen

2. Water, dry powder, carbon dioxide

3. Dry powder, carbon monoxide, water

4. Foam, water, sulphur dioxide

The correct answer is: Water, dry powder, carbon dioxide

The combination of extinguishing media that is commonly used on fires includes water, dry powder, and carbon dioxide. Each of these media serves specific purposes effectively. Water is a versatile and widely used extinguishing agent, primarily effective in cooling and suppressing fires, particularly those involving solid combustibles such as wood, paper, and textiles. Its ability to absorb heat helps lower the temperature of the burning material, making it less likely to ignite or continue burning. Dry powder is effective for a wide range of fire types, particularly for flammable liquids and gases. It works by creating a barrier between the fuel and the oxygen in the air, inhibiting the chemical reactions occurring within the fire. This makes it a suitable choice for many industrial applications. Carbon dioxide is specifically effective in extinguishing fires by displacing oxygen around the burning material. Given that fire needs oxygen to sustain itself, the removal of this element can quickly put out flames. It is particularly useful for electrical fires and flammable liquid fires, as it does not leave any residue. Together, these three extinguishing agents provide a comprehensive approach to tackling various types of fires, making the combination not only common but highly effective in fire safety protocols.