Which class of fire extinguisher should be used for fires involving live electricity?

The use of a Class C fire extinguisher is specifically designed for fires involving live electrical equipment. This is important because Class C extinguishers contain non-conductive agents, which means they can effectively put out electrical fires without posing a risk of electrical shock to the user. The agents used in Class C extinguishers, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) or dry chemical powder, are safe to use around electrical hazards.

In contrast, other classes of fire extinguishers are suited for different types of fires. Class A extinguishers are effective for ordinary combustibles like wood or paper, while Class B extinguishers are meant for flammable liquids such as gasoline or oils. Class D extinguishers are used for fires involving combustible metals, which require specific agents to smother the flame. Therefore, using the appropriate class of extinguisher is crucial for safely and effectively managing a fire involving live electricity.