Which hazard does a Class B fire extinguisher specifically address?

A Class B fire extinguisher is specifically designed to combat fires that involve flammable liquids, such as gasoline, oil, grease, and paints. These types of fires can be particularly dangerous due to the propensity of the liquids to ignite and spread flames rapidly. Class B extinguishers typically contain agents like foam, carbon dioxide, or dry chemical powders that effectively smother the flames or disrupt the combustion process by cooling the fuel or displacing oxygen.

Understanding the specific categorization of fire extinguishers is crucial for effective firefighting and safety practices. Each class of fire refers to different types of materials that can ignite and burn, so using the appropriate extinguisher is vital to minimize the risk of expanding the fire or causing injuries. For example, using a water-based extinguisher on a flammable liquid fire can be ineffective and even dangerous, as water can spread the flammable liquid.