
Strike First Corporation of America is Changing its Name to Safety One Industries! As always, consult with local fire-fighting authorities on the best safety procedures for your building.
#CLASS A FIRE EXTINGUISHER USED FOR HOW TO#
Know your fire safety equipment and how to use it so you can be fully prepared in the event of a Class C fire. Make sure you have an up-to-date fire extinguisher designed specifically for putting out Class C fires near any place where an electrical fire may occur. Still, fires can happen even in the best maintained environments. Avoid overloading outlets and improperly charging electrical devices.
#CLASS A FIRE EXTINGUISHER USED FOR CODE#
For Class C fires, make sure all your wiring, appliances, and electrical components are up to code and in good working condition at all times. The best fire-fighting strategy is prevention. Additionally, make sure to test your fire extinguisher periodically to ensure it’s in proper working condition.

It is important to review fire extinguisher instructions regularly so you are familiar with its proper use should a fire ever occur. These Class C fire extinguishers may contain monoammonium phosphate, potassium bicarbonate, or potassium chloride, all of which are suitable for putting out Class C fires.įire extinguishers of any type can only work to extinguish a fire when used properly. The fire dies when the oxygen and fuel can no longer interact due to the chemicals introduced by a dry chemical extinguisher. Similarly, dry chemical extinguishers work to separate the elements of a fire. They also suppress the fire’s heat because their discharge is very cold. Carbon dioxide (CO2) extinguishers smother a fire by eliminating the oxygen. Fire Extinguishers For Class C FiresĪ Class C fire requires an agent that can break apart the elements that feed a fire: oxygen, heat, and fuel. However, often times a dry chemical fire extinguisher can be used on Class A, B, and C fires. Once it becomes clear the burning object is completely disconnected from any electrical sources, a Class C extinguisher may be switched out for an extinguisher appropriate for fighting Class A fires. Class C fire extinguishers are the only type suitable for smothering the flames of a fire that is still connected to an electrical source. This is why having a Class C fire extinguisher and knowing how to use it properly is so important for comprehensive fire safety. The person fighting the fire may be electrocuted if a water-based extinguisher is utilized in an attempt to control a Class C fire. If water is used on a Class C fire that continues to be fueled by an electric power source, dangerous and even fatal results can occur. However, this is not always safe or possible and sometimes it’s unclear if an appliance is completely cut off from its source of power.

a computer on fire is unplugged from the electrical outlet). How to Fight a Class C FireĪ Class C fire can become a class A fire if the material in flames is cut off from the main power source (i.e. Class A is a category for fires consuming a source like fire or wood that can be extinguished with water, and Class B fires are fueled by flammable liquids like gasoline. “Class C” is a term that distinguishes a fire from Class A and Class B fires. Because water conducts electrical currents, using water on a Class C fire can result in a spread of the electricity and therefore the fire’s source of ignition. Water and water-based foams are not capable of putting out Class C fires because they cannot counteract the constant, electrical ignition source. When a fire occurs in an electrical unit such as a kitchen appliance, power panel, computer, or other media device, the electricity powering the equipment acts as a constant source of spark or ignition. Any place where electrical equipment is used or electrical wiring is present is a potential site for a Class C fire. Class C fires may begin from a short circuit, faulty wiring, power cord damage, overcharged devices, or overloaded electrical outlets.

“Energized” in this case means that it is fed by a power source. What Are Class C Fires?Ī Class C fire is an energized electrical fire. Understanding the distinct qualities of Class C fires and how to prevent and extinguish them is vital for keeping your commercial and residential buildings safe. There are also certain precautions that must be taken when confronting a Class C fire. Class C fires, sometimes referred to as electrical fires, require their own Class C fire extinguishers. Different kinds of fires are fought with different approaches and require specific types of extinguishers. Knowing fire classifications is an essential part of any fire safety plan, particularly in commercial settings where electrical, chemical, or flammable liquid fires can occur. What To Know About Class C Fire Extinguishers and Electrical Fires Class C Fire Extinguishers: For Electrical Fires
