When fighting an electrical fire, which method should be used?

Using non-conductive extinguishing methods is crucial when dealing with electrical fires because water is a conductive substance that can amplify the risk of electrocution to the person attempting to extinguish the fire. Non-conductive methods, such as dry chemical extinguishers or carbon dioxide extinguishers, are designed to effectively suppress electrical fires without creating a path for electric current. These methods safely extinguish flames without the risk of electric shock, making them the preferred choice in such situations.

Turning off the electricity before extinguishing does help mitigate risks, but in many situations, accessing the electrical source safely may not be possible or quick enough to prevent the fire from spreading. Moreover, simply using a Class B extinguisher might not adequately address the fire if it involves energized electrical equipment, as these extinguishers are not intended for use on live electrical fires. Therefore, non-conductive methods are emphasized for safety and effectiveness in handling electrical fire scenarios.