2025 NFPA Portable Fire Extinguishers Practice Exam – Complete Prep Guide

Portable fire extinguishers can indeed be used on fires involving electrical equipment, but it is essential to use the correct type of extinguisher. Class C rated extinguishers are specifically designed for fires that involve electrical equipment, as they do not conduct electricity. This makes them safe to use in scenarios where electrical fires may occur, such as when appliances, wiring, or circuit breakers ignite.

Using a Class C rated extinguisher ensures the safety of the user by preventing the risk of electrical shock during the firefighting process. Other types of extinguishers may not be suitable for electrical fires due to their conductive nature or because they do not effectively suppress the flames without posing a risk to the individual attempting to put out the fire.

Understanding the classifications of extinguishers is crucial in firefighting. While Class A extinguishers are effective for ordinary combustibles like wood and paper, they are not meant for electrical fires. Water extinguishers, which are often Class A, cannot be used on electrical fires as water conducts electricity and poses a severe risk to the user. Therefore, using a Class C rated extinguisher is both appropriate and safe for tackling fires involving electrical equipment.