What type of foam is typically used for extinguishing flammable liquid fires?

The best choice for extinguishing flammable liquid fires is alcohol-resistant foam. This type of foam is specifically formulated to combat fires involving polar solvents, which are substances that can mix with water and include many flammable liquids like alcohols, acetones, and other organic solvents. Alcohol-resistant foam creates a barrier on the surface of the burning liquid, preventing oxygen from reaching the fuel and effectively smothering the flames.

Using alcohol-resistant foam provides a comprehensive approach to extinguishing such fires because it does not dissolve or wash away easily in the presence of these solvents, ensuring sustained performance even in challenging conditions. In contrast, other types of foam may not be effective on polar solvents, making alcohol-resistant foam the appropriate choice for these situations.