How should you respond to an electrical fire, and which extinguisher is typically recommended?

• A. Evacuate personnel first, do not cut power, and use a Class B extinguisher.
• B. Shout for help and call maintenance.
• C. Cut power and evacuate only after the fire grows.
• D. Evacuate personnel first, cut power if safe, and use a Class C or ABC extinguisher appropriate for electrical fires.

Answer: (D)

Handling an electrical fire centers on safety, safe de-energizing if possible, and using the right extinguisher. Put people to safety first, since an energized fire poses a direct risk to anyone nearby. If you can reach and cut the power without exposing yourself to the flames or shock, do so to remove the energy feeding the fire. If cutting power isn’t safe to attempt, prioritize evacuation and getting help rather than pursuing the fire yourself. For the actual fire attack, use an extinguisher rated for electrical fires—Class C—or a multipurpose ABC extinguisher, provided you can approach the fire from a safe location and the power is off. Never use water or water-based extinguishers on an electrical fire, because water conducts electricity and can cause electrocution or spread the fire. This combination—protecting people, safely de-energizing when possible, and choosing a non-conductive extinguisher appropriate for electrical fires—explains why this approach is the best.