What can happen if you use the wrong type of fire extinguisher on a fire?

Using the wrong type of fire extinguisher on a fire can exacerbate the fire and cause injury because different types of extinguishers are designed to combat specific classes of fires. For example, using water on a grease fire (Class K) or electrical fire (Class C) can lead to disastrous consequences. Water can cause grease to splatter, spreading the fire, and can create electrical shock hazards if used on live electrical equipment. This improper response not only fails to contain the fire effectively but also increases the risk of injury to the person attempting to extinguish the flames. Therefore, understanding the fire class and matching it with the appropriate extinguisher is crucial for safe and effective fire management.