Which type of fire extinguisher is suitable for electrical fires?

The suitability of a fire extinguisher for electrical fires is determined by its classification. Type C fire extinguishers are specifically designed to handle fires that involve electrical equipment, such as wiring, circuit breakers, and appliances. This is because Type C extinguishers use non-conductive agents, which effectively suppress flames without the risk of conducting electricity and causing further hazards, such as electric shock.

In contrast, Type A extinguishers are intended for ordinary combustibles like wood and paper, while Type B extinguishers are used for flammable liquids and gases. Type D extinguishers are designed for combustible metals, which are not relevant in the context of electrical fires. This distinction is crucial for safety, as using the wrong type of extinguisher on an electrical fire could increase the risk of injury or spread the fire instead of extinguishing it.