What is the most effective extinguishing agent for electrical fires?

For electrical fires, carbon dioxide or dry chemical agents are the most effective extinguishing agents because they do not conduct electricity, which is crucial when dealing with live electrical equipment. Water, while common for many types of fires, is a poor choice for electrical fires as it can conduct electricity, potentially leading to electric shock or further escalation of the fire. Foam can also conduct electricity and is primarily effective for flammable liquids. ABC powder is a multipurpose fire-fighting agent that is effective in a variety of scenarios, including electrical fires, but carbon dioxide is specifically favored because it disperses quickly and displaces oxygen, effectively starving the fire without adding the risk of conducting electricity. Therefore, the use of carbon dioxide or dry chemical agents provides the safest and most effective means of extinguishment for electrical fires.