What type of extinguisher is appropriate for electrical fires?

The appropriate extinguisher for electrical fires is a Class C extinguisher. Class C extinguishers are specifically designed to handle fires that involve electrical equipment, such as wiring, circuit breakers, and appliances. These extinguishers typically use non-conductive agents—such as carbon dioxide or dry chemical agents—to smother the flames without the risk of conducting electricity, which could pose a danger to the user and worsen the situation.

In contrast, Class A extinguishers are suitable for ordinary combustibles like wood and paper, while Class B extinguishers address flammable liquids and gases. Lastly, Class D extinguishers are used for fires involving combustible metals, which are completely different and unrelated to electrical equipment. Knowing the specific class of extinguisher required for various types of fires is crucial for effective and safe firefighting.