Which of the following fire suppression agents is typically used to extinguish flammable liquid fires?

Foam is an effective fire suppression agent specifically designed to combat flammable liquid fires, also known as class B fires. Flammable liquids, such as gasoline or oil, create a surface that can ignite easily, and using water on such fires can often exacerbate the situation by spreading the burning liquid. Foam works by creating a barrier between the fuel and the oxygen in the air, effectively smothering the fire and preventing re-ignition.

Foam not only cools the burning liquid but also reduces the release of flammable vapors, making it a dual-action agent in fighting these types of fires. It is particularly useful because it can be applied in situations where water cannot be used effectively due to the risk of the flammable liquid mixing with the water and spreading.

While other agents listed, like dry powder and carbon dioxide, can also be effective in certain situations, foam remains the preferred choice for flammable liquids due to its ability to create a stable layer over the fire. This helps to protect against flare-ups and offers a more controlled extinguishing process.