What is the minimum extinguisher rating for a portable extinguisher near a room storing more than 60 gallons of flammable liquids?

• A. 10-B
• B. 20-B
• C. 40-B
• D. 60-B

Answer: (B)

When dealing with fires involving flammable liquids, you use a B-rated extinguisher. The number in a B rating reflects the extinguisher’s capacity to handle a flammable-liquid fire—the higher the number, the more liquid it can control. If the room stores more than 60 gallons, the minimum capacity needed is a 20-B extinguisher. A smaller rating wouldn’t provide enough extinguishing capacity for that quantity, while larger ratings would be more than required. So, the smallest acceptable choice for that situation is a 20-B extinguisher.