Which class extinguisher is suitable for fires involving electrical equipment?

• A. Class A
• B. Class B
• C. Class C
• D. Class D

Answer: (C)

Fires involving electrical equipment require an extinguishing agent that won’t conduct electricity. A Class C extinguisher is designed for energized electrical fires and uses non-conductive agents (such as dry chemical or CO2), which helps prevent electric shock and arcing while suppressing the flame. If it’s safe to do so, shut off the power to the equipment before or during extinguishing to avoid ongoing energization. Water-based extinguishers must be avoided on electrical fires because water conducts electricity and can create a dangerous shock or spread the fire. Other extinguisher classes target fuels like ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, or metals, which aren’t appropriate for fires with live electrical equipment, making Class C the best fit in this scenario.