Which type of fire extinguisher is most effective on a fire started with newspapers in an overhead bin?

The most effective type of fire extinguisher for a fire started with newspapers is a water fire extinguisher. Fires involving paper products, such as newspapers, are classified as Class A fires, which include ordinary combustible materials like wood, paper, and plastics. Water extinguishers work by cooling down the burning materials and lowering the temperature below the ignition point.

Using a water extinguisher allows for efficient application on such fires, as it can effectively soak the burning materials, extinguishing the flames. This method is particularly suitable for paper fires since water can penetrate and extinguish the fire while also preventing re-ignition by keeping the area cool.

In contrast, other types of extinguishers, such as foam, carbon dioxide, or dry chemical extinguishers, are more effective on other classes of fires or have limitations in suppressing Class A fires. Foam extinguishers are better suited for flammable liquids; carbon dioxide extinguishers may not effectively cool the fire; and dry chemical extinguishers, while versatile, can leave a residue that complicates cleanup in situations involving paper. Thus, for a fire involving newspapers, a water fire extinguisher is the most suitable choice.