For electrical fires, a Class C fire extinguisher is needed to put it out. Class C fires involve energized electrical equipment, and extinguishers with a C rating are designed for use with fires involving energized electrical equipment. Electrical fires need to be put out by a substance that is non-conductive, unlike the water or foam found in Class A fire extinguishers. If employees attempt to put out an electrical fire with a water extinguisher, there is a high risk of electrocution since water is conductive. The substances that can be found in Class C fire extinguishers are monoammonium phosphate, potassium chloride, or potassium bicarbonate. Another solution to put out electrical flames would be a Class C extinguisher that contains carbon dioxide. CO2 extinguishers are great for suppressing fires because it takes the fire’s oxygen source away as well as diminishes the fire’s heat since the CO2 is cold when expelled from the extinguisher.

It is important to use the right type of extinguisher on the specific class of fire to avoid personal injury or damage to property. The wrong type of extinguisher could cause electrical shock, explosion, or spread the fire.