What type of substance would Type B fire extinguishers be effective against?

Type B fire extinguishers are specifically designed to combat fires that involve flammable liquids. This includes substances such as gasoline, oil, paint, and solvents that can ignite and create dangerous fire conditions. The effectiveness of Type B extinguishers comes from their ability to suppress the flames and prevent the spread of flammable liquid fires by smothering the fire, thus cutting off the supply of oxygen and extinguishing it.

Using the appropriate extinguisher for the correct class of fire is critical for safety and effectiveness. Flammable gases would typically require a different type of extinguisher to handle the unique challenges they pose, while electrical fires require extinguishers rated for electrical equipment to safely avoid conducting electricity. Ordinary combustibles, such as wood and paper, are best tackled with Type A extinguishers that are suited for that class of material.