What type of fire extinguisher should be used for electrical fires?

The appropriate type of fire extinguisher to use for electrical fires is a Class C extinguisher. This designation is specifically for fires that involve electrical equipment or electrical hazards. Class C extinguishers utilize non-conductive agents, which are safe to use on live electrical fires without risk of electric shock.

Using the correct extinguisher for an electrical fire is crucial because other classes of extinguishers are not suitable and can pose greater risks. For instance, Class A extinguishers are meant for ordinary combustible materials, while Class B extinguishers are for flammable liquids. Class D extinguishers are designed for specific metal fires, which are not related to electrical hazards. Therefore, understanding the nature of the fire and using the correct fire extinguisher helps in effectively and safely extinguishing the fire.