In New Zealand there are six classes of fires, A B C D E and F. Class A Fires involving Carbonaceous Solids. Carbonaceous means carbon or ash residual, e.g. wood, cloth, paper, rubber, coal, plastic and any other material that leaves an ash.Class B Fires involving Flammable and Combustible Liquids. These fires fall into two groups: Miscible: Liquids which will mix with water, usually alcohol-based products, e.g. methylated spirits, methanol, etc. Immiscible: Liquids which will not mix with water, representing most of the hydrocarbon products we handle. Class C Fires involving Combustible Gases. These fires involve combustible gases, e.g. LPG (butane and propane), natural gas, town gas, acetylene, etc. Class D Fires involving Combustible Metals. These fires involve combustible metals, i.e. magnesium, titanium and alkali metals. Water is not to be used as extinguishing medium. Use DRY sand, soda ash, powders, etc. Class E Fires involving Electrically Energised Fuels of any Other Class. These fires are self-explanatory and can occur when electrical equipment is loaded beyond its design capabilities, normally producing excessive heat and pungent smell. It's not the copper wire burning, but the carbonaceous materials surrounding the electrical equipment, i.e. insulation materials, plastics, etc. Where possible de-energise power. If this is not possible, then a non-conductive extinguishing medium must be used. Class F Fires involving Combustible Cooking Oils or Fats. These fires involve combustible cooking oil and fats commonly found in cafe and restaurant kitchens