How should electrical fires be extinguished and what must be avoided?

• A. If safe, use Class C (or CO2/dry chemical) extinguishers; avoid water and energizing circuits; shut off power if feasible by authority.
• B. Use water to extinguish if safe.
• C. Use foam and water together.
• D. Evacuate and wait for utility.

Answer: (A)

Electrical fires must be attacked with non-conductive extinguishing methods and, if safe, by removing the electrical energy source. The best approach is to use a Class C extinguisher, or non-conductive agents like CO2 or dry chemical, because these don’t create a path for electrical current and won’t damage live equipment. Water or foam are not suitable here since water conducts electricity and can energize other components, posing a serious shock risk and potentially spreading the fire. If it’s safe to do so and a qualified person can access the power supply, shut off the power to the affected area to eliminate the energizing source. If you can’t do that safely, evacuate and call for help. Waiting for the utility or relying on water-based methods does not address the immediate danger and can worsen the situation.