Which extinguishing method would you use for flammable liquids?

Flammable liquids require specific extinguishing methods to effectively and safely suppress a fire. Using CO2 extinguishers is an appropriate choice for flammable liquids because they are effective at smothering the fire by displacing oxygen, which is essential for combustion. CO2 extinguishers release carbon dioxide gas, which is non-conductive and leaves no residue, making them suitable for use in environments where electrical equipment is present or where one would want to avoid contamination.

While ABC extinguishers can also be used for flammable liquids, they may not be as effective as CO2 for certain types of situations, particularly for large flammable liquid spills or when electrical equipment is involved. Water can aggravate a flammable liquid fire by spreading the flammable material, hence it is not recommended as a means of extinguishment. Water mist has specific applications and may not adequately suppress the fire depending on the flammable liquid involved. Therefore, the choice of CO2 extinguishers is grounded in their effectiveness and safety considerations with flammable liquids.