Which type of fire extinguisher is suitable for electrical fires?

The correct choice identifies a Class C fire extinguisher as suitable for electrical fires. Class C extinguishers are specifically designed to combat fires that involve energized electrical equipment, such as wiring, circuit breakers, and appliances, where using water or other conductive agents could pose a risk of electrocution.

Class C extinguishers typically use non-conductive agents, such as carbon dioxide (CO2) or dry chemicals, which not only extinguish the fire but also ensure safety by not conducting electricity. This is crucial because applying water or other conductive materials to an electrical fire can lead to severe injury or worsen the situation.

In contrast, Class A extinguishers are meant for ordinary combustible materials like wood, paper, and some plastics, while Class B extinguishers are suitable for flammable liquids such as oil and gasoline. Class D extinguishers are used for fires involving combustible metals like magnesium and titanium, which have entirely different extinguishing requirements. Therefore, choosing a Class C extinguisher is essential for safely addressing electrical fires.