Which class extinguishers are appropriate for electrical fires and what is the basic PASS technique?

Which class extinguishers are appropriate for electrical fires and what is the basic PASS technique?

• A. Class A extinguishers; PASS technique
• B. Class B extinguishers; PASS technique
• C. Class C (and ABC) extinguishers; PASS = Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep
• D. Class D extinguishers; PASS technique

Answer: (C)

Electrical fires require extinguishers that won’t conduct electricity and are rated for live equipment. Class C extinguishers are designed for energized electrical fires, and multipurpose extinguishers labeled Class ABC also include a Class C rating, making them suitable for electrical fires. Avoid water-based extinguishers on electrical fires because water conducts electricity and can create a shock hazard or spread the current. The basic PASS technique helps you use the extinguisher effectively: Pull the pin to break the tamper seal, Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle to release the agent, and Sweep the nozzle from side to side at the base of the flames until they’re out or you need to retreat.

Electrical fires require extinguishers that won’t conduct electricity and are rated for live equipment. Class C extinguishers are designed for energized electrical fires, and multipurpose extinguishers labeled Class ABC also include a Class C rating, making them suitable for electrical fires. Avoid water-based extinguishers on electrical fires because water conducts electricity and can create a shock hazard or spread the current.

The basic PASS technique helps you use the extinguisher effectively: Pull the pin to break the tamper seal, Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle to release the agent, and Sweep the nozzle from side to side at the base of the flames until they’re out or you need to retreat.