What is a key characteristic of class "A" fires?

A key characteristic of class "A" fires is that they consist of ordinary combustible materials. This category includes common materials such as wood, paper, cloth, rubber, and some kinds of plastics that can ignite and burn easily. Class "A" fires typically involve materials that are found in many environments, making them the most common type of fire encountered, particularly in residential and wildland settings.

Understanding the nature of class "A" fires is crucial for effective firefighting because they can usually be extinguished with water or other standard fire suppression methods. This contrasts with other fire classes, such as those that involve flammable metals or electrical components, which require specific agents or methods for suppression to avoid further hazards.