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

Utilizing a Class C fire extinguisher is the appropriate choice for electrical fires because these extinguishers are specifically designed to handle fires that involve energized electrical equipment. Class C extinguishers typically contain non-conductive agents, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) or dry chemical agents, which effectively extinguish the flames without posing a risk of electrical shock or exacerbating the situation.

In contrast, a Class A fire extinguisher is suitable for ordinary combustibles like wood and paper, while a Class B extinguisher is for flammable liquids such as gasoline and oils. Class D extinguishers are intended for metal fires, which involve combustible metals like magnesium or aluminum. Each extinguisher class serves distinct fire types, thereby emphasizing the importance of selecting the correct type to ensure effective and safe fire suppression.