Electrical Fire Extinguishers

Electrical fire extinguishers are an absolute must if your commercial premises contain any electrical equipment or appliances. And since so many of our buildings contain them, it’s unsurprising that the associated fire extinguisher is also just as common.

Fire extinguishers specifically catering to electrical fires help you to protect your staff and reduce damage to your equipment.

Which Fire Extinguishers Are Used For Electrical Fires?

Carbon dioxide, or CO2 as it’s better known, is the extinguisher agent for electrical fires, while some can be extinguished with dry powder extinguishers if a CO2 fire extinguisher is not readily available.

CO2 extinguishers are ideal for electrical fires as, unlike other water-based types, they do not present a risk of electrocution or extensive damage to surrounding equipment. The carbon dioxide displaces the oxygen used by fires and thus extinguishes the flames. However, care must be taken not to use this extinguisher type in enclosed spaces due to asphyxiation.

What Can’t Electrical Fire Extinguishers Be Used For?

Electrical fire extinguishers should not be used for fires involving cooking oils, solid organic materials, flammable gases or flammable metals. This is because they will either be ineffective or risk spreading flames further. You should also avoid using a CO2 extinguisher in confined spaces due to the hazard of suffocation for anyone in the area.