Water mist extinguishers are safe and well suited for use on burning electrical equipment as the de-ionised water mist does not conduct electricity and the water mist does not form puddles which could lead to electrocution.
What type of fire extinguisher is used on electrical fires?
Traditionally, CO2 extinguishers are used for electric equipment, as the CO2 gas does not carry electricity. However, CO2 gas can drift off and the fire can re-ignite.
Is it safe to use a water extinguisher on an electrical fire?
Never use a water extinguisher on electrical fires or any fire involving a flammable liquid. As any science student will tell you, water conducts the current. If you spray water onto an electrical fire, inadvertently or intentionally, you risk electrocuting yourself.
What type of fire extinguisher should not be used on an electrical fire?
Class B: Flammable liquids such as alcohol, ether, oil, gasoline and grease, which are best extinguished by smothering. Class C: Electrical equipment, appliances and wiring in which the use or a nonconductive extinguishing agent prevents injury from electrical shock. Don’t use water.
What do you use for an electrical fire?
If an electrical fire starts
- Cut off the electricity. If the device that is causing the electrical fire is found, and you can reach the cord and outlet safely, unplug it.
- Add sodium bicarbonate. …
- Remove the oxygen source. …
- Don’t use water to put it out. …
- Check your fire extinguisher.
Which extinguisher should you use on live electrical equipment?
Use: Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers are ideal for environments at risk of electrical appliances (Class E) and also fires involving flammable liquids (Class B).
How do you extinguish an electrical fire?
A fire extinguisher is an ideal way to douse an electrical fire, and OSHA suggests having a working fire extinguisher on every floor of the home in the event of an emergency. It’s essential, however, that any extinguisher used to put out electrical fires is rated appropriately.