Can AFFF be used on class A fires?

Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) is primarily designed for combating Class B fires, which involve flammable liquids. However, it can also be effective on Class A fires under certain circumstances due to its cooling and smothering properties. When applied to Class A materials, AFFF can create a film that not only helps reduce the heat from the fire but also suppresses smoke and vapor generation.

The reasoning behind the selection highlights that AFFF's water content aids in cooling burning materials, while the foam component helps to blanket the fire, potentially preventing re-ignition. While AFFF is not the primary agent recommended for Class A fires, its use can be advantageous in specific scenarios, particularly where a combination of both flammable liquids and combustible solids exists in a fire.

It is essential to understand that while AFFF can be used on Class A fires, it is typically not as effective as agents specifically formulated for those types of fires, such as Class A foam. Thus, while the choice suggests that AFFF can be utilized because of its cooling effects, its application in Class A scenarios should be limited and carefully considered based on the specific fire situation. Additionally, knowing the ideal situations for using AFFF reinforces the importance of selecting