What is the role of a Class C fire extinguisher?

A Class C fire extinguisher is specifically designed to suppress electrical fires. These types of fires can occur in situations involving energized electrical equipment, such as wiring, circuit breakers, or appliances. Using the appropriate extinguisher, such as Class C, is crucial because other types of extinguishers might conduct electricity, posing additional risks to the user or worsening the fire situation. Class C extinguishers typically use non-conductive agents, which effectively extinguish the flames without conducting electricity, making them safe for use on live electrical fires. This specialized function is what distinguishes Class C extinguishers from those intended for other fire classes, such as those involving combustible metals, cooking oils, or ordinary combustibles.