Which type of fire extinguisher is used on an electrical fire?

• A. Water
• B. CO2
• C. Halon/Halotron
• D. Foam

Answer: (C)

When fighting a fire in electrical equipment, you need an extinguishing agent that won’t conduct electricity or leave a residue that could cause short circuits. Water is out because it conducts electricity, creating a shock risk and potentially energizing the extinguisher stream. Foam also isn’t ideal for electrical fires because it can leave conductive residue. CO2 is non-conductive, but it displaces oxygen and can be hazardous to people nearby in enclosed spaces, plus it may not reach all parts of energized gear. Halogen-based clean agents, such as Halon or Halotron, are effective here because they interrupt the flame’s chemical reactions without conducting electricity and with minimal residue, making them suitable for electrical fires.