Which agent is used for Bravo-class fires, according to standard suppression methods?

• A. Water fog
• B. Halon or AFFF
• C. CO2
• D. Firemain

Answer: (B)

Bravo-class fires involve flammable liquids, so the standard suppression method uses agents that either blanket the liquid surface and cool it, or interrupt the flame chemically. Halon or AFFF are the preferred choices. AFFF forms a foam blanket on the liquid, cooling the fuel and cutting off the vapor release that keeps the fire going, which helps prevent reignition. Halon acts as a clean-agent extinguisher, rapidly interrupting the chemical reactions in the flame and smothering it, especially effective in enclosed spaces. Water-based options like water fog or firemain can spread flammable liquids or fail to cool and isolate the vapor adequately, and CO2, while useful in confined areas, doesn’t provide the same surface blanket or cooling for hydrocarbon fires.