Which type of fire extinguisher is most commonly used for electrical fires?

The CO2 extinguisher is specifically designed to tackle electrical fires effectively. It works by displacing oxygen, which is essential for combustion, and it does not conduct electricity, making it safe to use on live electrical equipment. CO2 extinguishers are particularly useful for fires that involve electrical components or materials, such as electrical panels, motors, or wiring.

While dry chemical extinguishers can also be used on electrical fires, they leave a residue that might be harmful to sensitive electronic equipment, whereas CO2 does not leave any damage. Water extinguishers should never be used on electrical fires, as water conducts electricity and poses a risk of electrocution. Foam extinguishers are effective for flammable liquids but not suitable for electrical fires. Therefore, CO2 extinguishers are the preferred and safest choice for extinguishing fires involving electrical equipment.