What class of fire involves sodium and magnesium?

The class of fire that involves sodium and magnesium is Class D. Class D fires are those that involve combustible metals, such as sodium, magnesium, potassium, and titanium. These metals ignite at high temperatures and can be particularly hazardous because they can burn with intense heat, can react with water, and require specialized extinguishing agents to manage them effectively.

In a fire involving sodium or magnesium, traditional extinguishing methods such as water can exacerbate the situation by causing violent reactions, making it essential to use specific dry powder agents designed to suppress Class D fires. Understanding the properties and behaviors of combustion materials is crucial for proper fire classification and safe firefighting strategies. This knowledge helps in selecting the appropriate firefighting approach, ensuring safety in environments where such materials are present.