What is a key reason for handling alkali metal fires with special care?

Handling alkali metal fires with special care is essential because these metals react violently with water. When alkali metals such as sodium or potassium come into contact with water, they undergo a highly exothermic reaction that can result in the production of hydrogen gas and intense heat. This may lead to fires or explosions, making water an unsuitable extinguishing agent for these types of fires. Understanding this reaction is critical for safety during fire suppression efforts involving alkali metals. It emphasizes the need for specialized extinguishing methods that do not involve water, such as using dry chemical extinguishers or sand to safely smother the flames without initiating a violent reaction.