Which extinguisher type is suitable for fires involving electrical equipment that is plugged in, using a non-conductive agent?

• A. Type B
• B. Type A
• C. Type C
• D. Type K

Answer: (C)

Fires with live electrical equipment require a non-conductive extinguishing agent to prevent the current from traveling through the extinguisher and posing a shock hazard. Water-based or other conductive agents can energize the circuit and endanger the rescuer, so they’re not suitable for energized electrical fires. An extinguisher designed for electrical fires uses a non-conductive agent (such as dry chemical or CO2) that safely suppresses the flame without conducting electricity. In this scenario, that non-conductive, electrical-fire-rated extinguisher is the best fit. Other extinguishers target different fire classes—ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, or cooking oils—and aren’t specifically appropriate for live electrical fires.