Extinguishing methods are techniques used to put out fires and prevent them from spreading. Common methods include using water, which cools the flames and reduces heat, and foam, which smothers the fire by cutting off its oxygen supply. Other methods involve using dry chemical agents that interrupt the chemical reactions occurring in the fire, or carbon dioxide, which displaces oxygen and suffocates the flames. In addition to these methods, fire extinguishers are categorized based on the type of fire they are designed to combat. For example, Class A extinguishers are effective against ordinary combustibles like wood and paper, while Class B extinguishers target flammable liquids. Understanding these methods is crucial for effective fire safety and prevention.