What type of fire is a Class C extinguisher primarily used for?

A Class C fire extinguisher is specifically designed for use on fires involving electrical equipment. This includes fires that occur in appliances, wiring, circuit breakers, or anything else that is electrically powered. The extinguishing agents in Class C extinguishers are non-conductive, ensuring that they can safely be used on live electrical fires without the risk of electrical shock to the user.

Using a Class C extinguisher is critical because using the wrong type of extinguisher – such as those designed for ordinary combustibles or flammable liquids – can exacerbate the situation. For instance, using water-based extinguishers (not appropriate for Class C fires) on electrical fires can lead to serious risks, as water conducts electricity. The correct identification of the fire class is essential for ensuring safety and effectiveness in controlling and extinguishing the fire.