What type of extinguisher would you use on a gasoline fire?

Using a carbon dioxide extinguisher on a gasoline fire is appropriate for several reasons. Carbon dioxide (CO₂) extinguishers work by displacing oxygen, which is crucial for combustion. When you direct CO₂ at a gasoline fire, the gas reduces the available oxygen, effectively suffocating the flames. Moreover, CO₂ is a non-conductive agent, making it safe for use on flammable liquid fires, including those involving gasoline.

In contrast, using water on a gasoline fire can exacerbate the situation. Water is ineffective because gasoline is lighter than water and will float on it, causing the flames to spread rather than extinguishing them. Class A extinguishers, intended for ordinary combustibles like wood or paper, are also not suitable since they rely on water or other agents that won't effectively handle burning liquids. An acid gas extinguisher typically targets reactions involving corrosive materials and is not suited for flammable liquid fires either.

Overall, a carbon dioxide extinguisher is the most effective choice for extinguishing a gasoline fire due to its ability to cut off the oxygen supply without causing additional hazards.