Choosing The Right Fire Extinguisher For Electrical Fires

Commercial buildings face many threats, but as properties evolve into increasingly digital ecosystems, the risk and impact of potential electrical fires continue to grow. These electrical fires also stand out due to their unique challenges - not only do they present an immediate danger of the flames, but they also pose the risk of electrocution.

Because of this unique and specific threat, it’s crucial that buildings are equipped with the right fire extinguisher for electrical fires. 

In small electrical fires, one option for a fire extinguisher for electrical situations is the dry powder fire extinguisher. This extinguisher works by deploying a dry chemical powder that creates a physical barrier around the fire and interrupts the supply of oxygen - which is essential for a fire to burn. 

It is important to note, however, that while dry powder fire extinguishers can combat small electrical fires effectively, they leave a residual powder that can damage delicate electronic devices. Click here to learn more about dry powder fire extinguishers and the situations where they are most effective.

The CO2 fire extinguisher is the preferred choice for higher-voltage fires, being recommended for electrical fires above 1000v. It’s also the preferred fire extinguisher for electrical situations, as the CO2 gas doesn’t leave any residue after the fire.

CO2 fire extinguishers work by, again, disrupting the supply of oxygen around the fire, by increasing the concentration of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. For this reason, CO2 extinguishers aren’t recommended for enclosed spaces, as the carbon dioxide itself is dangerous at concentrations of 4% in the atmosphere. 

If you have areas of your building with large amounts of business-critical electrical equipment, such as offices, laboratories, and server rooms, a CO2 fire extinguisher is the ideal solution.

Even when your room is equipped with the correct fire extinguisher for electrical fires, it’s easy to forget basic safety measures in the heat of the moment.

In the event of an electrical fire, it’s crucial that you try to switch off any electrical devices to reduce the risk of electrocution, and under no circumstances should you pour water onto the fire. Water acts as a conductor of electricity, so using it on an electrical fire can be catastrophic.

Every fire demands a specific response, and having the correct fire extinguisher for electrical fires at your disposal is a game-changer. It can significantly impact how effectively you manage the situation, ensuring the safety of both building occupants and business assets.

At Johnson Controls, we’ve been protecting buildings from fire for decades. Our portfolio of world-class fire extinguishers will help you to keep people and property safe — take a look at the full range here.