Electrical fires are classified as which class?

• A. Class A
• B. Class B
• C. Class C
• D. Class D

Answer: (C)

Fire classifications separate fires by the fuel or hazard involved. Electrical fires come from live electrical equipment, which creates a risk of electric shock and arcing. Because electricity can conduct heat and current, the extinguishing method must be non-conductive and safe to apply to energized gear, and you should shut off power if it can be done safely. That combination of electrical hazard and the need for non-conductive, appropriate extinguishing media is why fires involving electrical equipment are placed in their own category. The other categories cover ordinary combustibles like wood and paper, flammable liquids, and certain reactive metals, which have different fuels and extinguishing needs.