Which fire extinguisher is considered most effective for electrical fires?

Carbon dioxide (CO2) fire extinguishers are considered the most effective for electrical fires because they work by displacing oxygen in the area of the fire and cooling the burning material, which effectively suffocates the flames. CO2 is non-conductive, making it safe to use on live electrical equipment without the risk of electrical shock or conducting electricity.

In addition to their effectiveness on electrical fires, CO2 extinguishers leave no residue, making them particularly suitable for sensitive environments such as data centers or laboratories where equipment may be damaged by other extinguishing agents. In contrast, using water or foam could pose significant risks when attempting to extinguish electrical fires, as both can conduct electricity. Dry powder extinguishers can also be used on electrical fires but may not be as effective as CO2 in certain situations.