Which type of fire is a dry powder extinguisher used for?

A dry powder extinguisher is specifically designed to combat Class D fires, which involve combustible metals such as magnesium, titanium, and sodium. These materials have unique burning characteristics and can ignite at very high temperatures, making them particularly dangerous. The dry powder used in these extinguishers works by smothering the fire and isolating the fuel—preventing oxygen from reaching it—while also cooling the flames.

Using other types of extinguishers on Class D fires can be ineffective or even dangerous. Water, for instance, can react violently with certain metals, possibly spreading the fire instead of extinguishing it. This specificity highlights the importance of selecting the right type of extinguisher based on the fire class to ensure safety and effectiveness in emergency situations.