Which fire class corresponds to fires involving ordinary combustibles such as wood and paper?

Fires involving ordinary combustibles such as wood, paper, cloth, and most types of trash correspond to Class A fires. This classification is essential for understanding the appropriate extinguishing methods, as Class A fires can typically be extinguished with water or certain foam agents that help cool and smother the flames.

Class A distinctions are critical for firefighting professionals since they indicate that the fire primarily involves solid materials that burn, which is common in residential and structural fires. This knowledge aids firefighters in selecting the correct type of fire extinguisher and tactics to effectively control and extinguish the fire without exacerbating the situation.