Otis Singleton
Electrical fires are a common and dangerous type of household fire that can be caused by faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or malfunctioning electrical devices. When an electrical fire breaks out, it is crucial to use the correct type of fire extinguisher to avoid worsening the situation. Water-based, foam, or wet chemical extinguishers should not be used on electrical fires as they can conduct electricity, leading to electric shock and potentially spreading the flames. Instead, Class C fire extinguishers that utilize non-conductive agents such as carbon dioxide (CO2) or dry chemicals are recommended. CO2 extinguishers work by displacing oxygen and suffocating the fire, while dry chemical extinguishers use potassium bicarbonate or potassium chloride to break the chemical reaction. These extinguishers are designed to prevent electrical shock while effectively putting out the flames.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of fire extinguisher | Class C Type, CO2, Dry Chemical, Dry Powder |
| How it works | Displaces oxygen, suffocates the fire, cools the equipment |
| Ideal for | Small fires in enclosed areas, sensitive electronic devices and machinery |
| Avoid using | Water-based, foam, wet chemical, powder-based extinguishers |
| Safety tips | Stay calm, disconnect the power source, evacuate if the fire is uncontrollable or spreading rapidly |
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What You'll Learn
CO2 fire extinguishers are best for electrical fires
Electrical fires are dangerous and require specific types of fire extinguishers to tackle them. Water-based, foam, or wet chemical extinguishers must not be used to put out electrical fires. Water conducts electricity, which can cause electric shock and make the fire worse. Foam extinguishers can also conduct electricity, creating a risk of electric shock for the person operating the extinguisher.
CO2 fire extinguishers are the best choice for electrical fires. They are non-conductive and work by displacing oxygen and suffocating the fire without leaving any residue. This makes them ideal for protecting sensitive electronic equipment. CO2 extinguishers also have a cooling effect, helping to prevent re-ignition.
Class C dry chemical extinguishers are another option for electrical fires. They use potassium bicarbonate or potassium chloride to break the chemical reaction that sustains the fire. However, unlike CO2 extinguishers, they may leave a residue.
It is important to note that electrical fires can be caused by faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or malfunctioning electrical devices. To stay safe, it is crucial to remain calm, assess the severity of the fire, and disconnect the power source if it is safe to do so. If the fire is uncontrollable or spreads rapidly, evacuate the area immediately and call the emergency services.
CO2 fire extinguishers are specifically designed to tackle electrical fires. By displacing oxygen, they prevent the fire from spreading and minimise the risk of electrical shock. They are safe to use on live electrical equipment, provided that a safe distance is maintained. With the increasing number of electrical hazards in modern environments, it is crucial to be equipped with the right fire extinguisher to effectively handle electrical fires.
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Water-based extinguishers are ineffective and dangerous
Water conducts electricity, so using water-based extinguishers on electrical fires can cause electric shock and make the fire worse. They can also be ineffective, allowing the fire to spread. Non-dielectric-tested water extinguishers can drip into electrical systems, creating short circuits.
Water-based extinguishers are also ineffective on lithium-ion battery fires. While they can provide an essential cooling effect, they cannot form a thermal barrier around the fire. Once you run out of water-based extinguishant, you've run out of fire-suppressing power. The battery will re-ignite until the cell completely discharges its energy.
Foam extinguishers are also ineffective on lithium-ion battery fires, as the film they create will not survive the high temperatures reached.
Using the wrong type of fire extinguisher on an electrical fire can pose several serious dangers. It can result in electric shock to the person operating the extinguisher, leading to severe injury or even death. It can also produce toxic fumes, especially if the extinguishing agent reacts with the burning materials. These fumes can be harmful if inhaled and pose additional health risks.
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Dry chemical extinguishers are also effective
When dealing with electrical fires, it is important to use the correct type of fire extinguisher. Water-based, foam, or wet chemical extinguishers should not be used. This is because water conducts electricity, which can cause electric shock and make the fire worse.
Dry chemical extinguishers are rated as ABC or BC. The type of rating depends on the extinguisher's suitability for different classes of fire. Class A fires are those fuelled by ordinary combustible materials such as wood, paper, or cloth. Class B fires involve flammable liquids such as gasoline, oil, or paint. Dry chemical extinguishers are suitable for both of these classes of fire, in addition to electrical fires (Class C).
It is important to note that not all dry chemical extinguishers are suitable for electrical fires. When purchasing or using a dry chemical extinguisher for electrical fires, it is crucial to check that it is rated for Class C fires.
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Foam extinguishers are not suitable
Foam extinguishers also leave a residue that must be cleaned up, and they are more expensive than water extinguishers. Foam extinguishers are ineffective on burning fats or cooking oils, and they are not suitable for offices and domestic premises.
Foam extinguishers can be used on some electrical fires if they have been tested and if fired from 1 metre away. However, it is important to note that using the wrong type of fire extinguisher on an electrical fire can pose several serious dangers and provide ineffective fire suppression, allowing the fire to spread and cause more damage.
Using an inappropriate extinguisher may also produce toxic fumes, especially if the extinguishing agent reacts with the burning materials. Water and foam extinguishers should never be used for electrical fires as they can conduct electricity and cause shock or electrocution.
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Fire buckets, blankets and hoses are not suitable
Fire extinguishers are classified according to the types of fires they can put out. Electrical fires require a "Class C Type" fire extinguisher, which uses carbon dioxide (CO2) to suffocate the fire and prevent it from spreading. CO2 is a non-conductive gas that cools the equipment, helping to prevent re-ignition, and leaves no residue, making it ideal for sensitive electronics.
Fire buckets, blankets, and hoses are not suitable for electrical fires due to several limitations and risks. Fire buckets, for instance, are not recommended for use with water on electrical appliances or burning fat/oil. They are also ineffective against large fires and may be left empty or misused. Fire hoses, which release water at high pressure, are effective for Class A fires but are heavy and unsuitable for electrical fires due to the risk of electric shock.
Fire blankets, while useful for small kitchen fires or clothing fires, are inadequate for electrical fires due to their size limitations and the risk of electrocution if the power source is not turned off. Electrical fires can continue sparking even after the flames are extinguished, and the power source may still be active, leading to re-ignition. Additionally, electrical fires can occur in hard-to-reach places, making it challenging to use a fire blanket effectively.
It is important to use the appropriate fire extinguisher for electrical fires to avoid serious dangers and ensure safety. CO2 extinguishers are the best choice for these types of fires, as they do not conduct electricity and can effectively suffocate the flames without causing damage to electrical equipment.
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Frequently asked questions
You should use a carbon dioxide (CO2) or dry chemical extinguisher, also known as a Class C extinguisher. These extinguishers use non-conductive agents to prevent electrical shock while putting out the fire.
Water conducts electricity, which can cause electric shock and make the fire worse. Water-based extinguishers can also cause re-ignition as they do not form a thermal barrier around the fire.
CO2 fire extinguishers work by displacing oxygen and suffocating the fire without leaving any residue. This makes them ideal for use on sensitive electronic devices and machinery. They also have a cooling effect, helping to prevent re-ignition.
