What type of fire extinguisher is typically used for alpha class fires?

Water-based extinguishers are specifically effective against alpha class fires, which involve ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, and certain textiles. These types of fires typically necessitate cooling and soaking of the burning material to extinguish them effectively, and water serves this purpose by reducing the temperature below the ignition point.

Water extinguishers work by removing the heat component of the fire triangle, which also includes fuel and oxygen. This cooling effect is particularly advantageous for alpha class fires where organic materials are present. Other types of extinguishers, such as those using powder or CO2, are better suited for different classes of fires and may not effectively suppress alpha class fires without the risk of re-ignition or inadequate cooling. Foam extinguishers are more suited for class B fires involving flammable liquids, rather than for class A combustibles. Therefore, the water-based extinguisher is the preferred choice for effectively managing alpha class fires.