Introduction
Understanding fire safety procedures is essential in any situation that involves potential fire hazards. While fire can occur due to different reasons, electrical fires have their characteristics and require specific fire extinguishers to suppress them. Therefore, it’s vital to know what type of fire extinguisher to use in case of an electrical fire emergency.
In this article, we’ll be exploring the different types of fire extinguishers and which one is suitable for electrical fires. We’ll also provide detailed guidelines on how to select the right fire extinguisher and how to apply it effectively while staying safe.
Understanding Electrical Fires and How They are Different
Electrical fires occur due to an overload of an electrical circuit, damaged electrical cords, or an electrical discharge. Since electricity produces heat, it can easily ignite anything combustible in its path, such as fabric, paper, and wood. Electrical fires can also burn silently, and the flames may not be visible on the surface.
Electrical fires burn differently than regular fires. They don’t burn materials but instead burn the electricity in the conductor. If you apply water or other foam-based extinguishers, it may cause electric shocks, and the fire might spread further. Therefore, it’s vital to use a specific fire extinguisher designed for electrical fires to avoid casualties.
Electrical fires are also dangerous because they often occur behind walls, making it challenging to detect. Also, they can cause power outages, leading to other potential hazards such as gas leaks and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Different Types of Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers come in different types, each suited for different fires. There are five distinguished classes of fire extinguishers, as outlined below:
- Class A: used for fires sparked by flammable materials such as paper, plastic, and wood.
- Class B: used for fires that involve flammable liquids like gasoline, oils, and most organic substances.
- Class C: used for electrical fires.
- Class D: used for flammable metals like magnesium, titanium, and potassium.
- Class K: used for fires arising from cooking oils, animal fats, and vegetable fats.
Which Type of Fire Extinguisher is Suitable for Electrical Fires?
As mentioned earlier, Class C fire extinguishers should be used for electrical fires. Class C extinguishers contain non-conductive agents that extinguish the fire without conducting electric current and causing further damage. These fire extinguishers usually contain carbon dioxide or dry chemical powder.
Carbon dioxide extinguishers are effective against electrical fires as they emit a cold discharge that cools the burning surface. The CO2 gas also displaces the oxygen around the fire, depriving it of its heat source. However, it can only extinguish small electrical fires and doesn’t provide long-lasting cooling action.
Dry chemical powder extinguishers, on the other hand, are effective against electrical fires as well as Class A and B fires. The powder spreads out and covers the burning material, choking the fire by creating a barrier between the oxygen and heat source. The powder may cause breathing difficulties, though, making it crucial to ensure proper ventilation.
Identifying the Right Fire Extinguisher for Electrical Fires
It’s crucial to identify the right fire extinguisher for electrical fires to avoid damaging electronic devices and putting oneself in danger. Here are some guidelines on how to select the right fire extinguisher:
- Check the label and ensure it reads “Class C”
- Look for a fire extinguisher with either carbon dioxide or dry chemical powder
- Inspect the information panel and orient yourself with the operational instructions and expiry date
- Ensure the fire extinguisher is regularly maintained and doesn’t have any visible signs of damage or leakage
Applying the Right Techniques while Using the Fire Extinguishers for Electrical Fires
Using a fire extinguisher requires caution, and it’s essential to learn how to use it effectively and safely. Here are some guidelines on how to use a fire extinguisher for an electrical fire:
- Always call for help from the fire department before attempting to put out an electrical fire with a fire extinguisher
- Cut off the electricity source first to avoid causing electric shock or spreading the fire
- Stand at least six feet away from the fire to avoid electric shock, then aim the fire extinguisher at the base of the fire
- Squeeze the handle and direct the fire extinguisher at the base of the flames, sweeping back and forth until the fire is out
- Turn off all electrical systems and devices and use thermal cameras to check if the fire has spread behind the walls
Common Mistakes to Avoid while Using the Fire Extinguishers for Electrical Fires
Using a fire extinguisher ineffectively could lead to further spread of the fire and more danger for oneself. These are common mistakes to avoid:
- Do not use water or foam-based extinguishers on electrical fires
- Do not touch exposed wires or use metal ladders
- Avoid inhaling the chemical powder from the extinguisher as they can cause breathing difficulties
- Do not direct the fire extinguisher at the flames’ top as it could only scatter the debris and spread the fire
Summary
It’s vital to select the right fire extinguisher to suppress an electrical fire effectively. Electrical fires behave differently than regular fires, and they require specific extinguishers that contain non-conductive agents. Carbon dioxide and dry chemical powder are popular options for these types of fires, as they extinguish without the risk of electric shocks or further damage to electronic devices.
Conclusion
Knowing what to do in case of an electrical fire should be everyone’s priority. When it comes to suppressing the fire, using the right fire extinguisher is crucial. Therefore, it’s essential to equip oneself with the knowledge of fire extinguishers and their different categories to act quickly and effectively when an electrical fire breaks out.