An electrical fire is what class of fire?

An electrical fire is classified as a Class C fire. This classification is specific to fires that involve electrical equipment, such as wiring, motors, or appliances. The key characteristic of a Class C fire is that it occurs with energized electrical sources, which makes these fires particularly hazardous.

Using water or other conductive materials can escalate the danger of an electrical fire, potentially leading to electrocution or further ignition. As a result, specialized extinguishing agents, such as carbon dioxide or dry chemical extinguishers, are recommended for Class C fires, as they do not conduct electricity and can effectively suppress the flames without posing additional risks.

In contrast, other fire classes target different materials: Class A fires involve ordinary combustibles, Class B fires pertain to flammable liquids, and Class D fires are associated with combustible metals. Understanding these classifications is essential for safety and effective fire response.