Basic Corrections Officer Certification Practice 2026 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

A water-based extinguisher is appropriate for fires involving wood and paper, as these materials are classified as Class A fires. Water works by cooling the burning material below its ignition temperature and by providing a barrier to inhibit the fire's access to oxygen. This type of extinguisher is effective because it can douse the flames thoroughly, preventing re-ignition.

Halon extinguishers are typically used for electrical and flammable liquid fires, and they work by interrupting the chemical reaction of the fire but are not suitable for solid combustible materials like wood and paper. Class D extinguishers are specifically designed for combustible metals and do not address the type of situation presented with wood and paper. Meanwhile, a D.C. extinguisher is not standard terminology for fire extinguishers and may refer to different classifications depending on the context, but it is not recognized for typical combustible materials. Therefore, the water-based extinguisher is the most effective and appropriate choice for wood and paper fires.