Which fire class is designated for electrical equipment?

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

Answer: (C)

Fires involving electrical equipment are classified for situations where electricity is involved. The emphasis is on using non-conductive extinguishing methods so current can’t travel through the extinguisher or your body. This is why non-conductive agents like dry chemical powders or clean agent (CO2) extinguishers are used on energized electrical fires. Water must be avoided on live electrical fires because it conducts electricity and can cause shock or arcing. If it’s safe to do so, shut off the power before attacking the fire, but never touch equipment that is still energized. Once power is off, the fire’s classification may shift depending on the material burning. The other classes correspond to ordinary combustibles, flammable liquids, and combustible metals.