As electrical devices become increasingly common in daily life, the risk of electrical fires has also risen. With advancements in technology, the variety of fire extinguishers available on the market has grown, including options such as dry powder extinguishers and water-based extinguishers. However, when an electrical fire occurs, can a water-based fire extinguisher be used? In this article, we will analyze the characteristics of electrical fires, discuss the scenarios where water-based fire extinguishers can be used, and provide you with the correct fire safety knowledge to ensure your safety.

What is a Water-Based Fire Extinguisher?

A water-based fire extinguisher is a device that primarily uses water as the extinguishing agent, often combined with foam, additives, or other substances to enhance its effectiveness. It is mainly used to put out ordinary solid fires, such as those involving paper, wood, and other combustibles. The working principle of a water-based fire extinguisher is to spray water to lower the temperature of the fire source and thereby extinguish the flames.

Characteristics of Electrical Fires

Electrical fires typically occur due to electrical equipment malfunctions, short circuits, overloaded circuits, or faulty wiring. Electrical fires are particularly dangerous because electrical devices often carry high voltage, creating a risk of electric shock at the scene. The common combustible materials in electrical fires include wires, insulation, and the outer casing of electrical devices. The methods used to extinguish electrical fires require special care, as the wrong approach can lead to more serious consequences.

Can Water-Based Fire Extinguishers Be Used for Electrical Fires?

It is not recommended to use a water-based fire extinguisher to put out electrical fires!

1. Conductivity of Water: Water is a conductive material. If a water-based fire extinguisher is used on an electrical fire, the water could come into contact with high-voltage electrical equipment, leading to the risk of electric shock, which could cause even more serious injuries or even death.

2. The Specificity of Electrical Fires: The correct method for dealing with an electrical fire is to first disconnect the power supply. Using a water-based fire extinguisher does not effectively disconnect the power source, and instead, it may increase the danger in the vicinity of the electrical equipment, failing to address the root cause of the fire.

3. Limited Effectiveness: While water-based fire extinguishers are effective in extinguishing ordinary solid fires, they have limited effectiveness in electrical fires. In fact, water can worsen the fire by conducting electricity and may cause secondary damage by short-circuiting electrical devices.

What Type of Fire Extinguisher Should Be Used for Electrical Fires?

When it comes to electrical fires, using the correct fire extinguisher is critical. Below are some types of fire extinguishers that are commonly used for electrical fires:

1. CO2 Fire Extinguisher: CO2 fire extinguishers are commonly used for electrical fires. They work by releasing carbon dioxide gas, which rapidly reduces the oxygen level around the fire, suppressing the flames. Since CO2 is non-conductive, it is safe to use on electrical fires.

2. Dry Powder Fire Extinguisher: Dry powder fire extinguishers are also effective for electrical fires. They work by releasing dry powder to cover the combustibles, breaking the fire triangle and extinguishing the flames. Dry powder extinguishers are suitable for a wide range of fire types, including electrical fires.

3. Foam Fire Extinguisher (Under Specific Conditions): Foam fire extinguishers can be used for oil and electrical fires, but only when the electrical equipment has been disconnected. Caution is required when using foam fire extinguishers near live electrical devices to avoid accidents.

Fire Extinguisher Products from Tenglong Fire Technology

Tenglong Fire Technology Co., Ltd. is committed to providing high-quality fire extinguishers for various customers, from household to industrial fire extinguishers, including dry powder and CO2 extinguishers. Our diverse range of products meets different needs, ensuring safety for both residential and industrial applications.

1. Household Fire Extinguishers

Our household fire extinguishers are compact, easy to use, and ideal for home use. They can effectively deal with small-scale fires that may occur in the home, ensuring the safety of family members.

2. Industrial Fire Extinguishers

For industries, we offer efficient and reliable industrial fire extinguishers. Whether it’s an electrical fire or a chemical fire, Tenglong Fire Technology provides comprehensive fire safety solutions for businesses.

3. Specialized Electrical Fire Extinguishers

We offer fire extinguishers specifically designed for electrical fires, including CO2 extinguishers and dry powder extinguishers. These products ensure the safety of both your equipment and personnel.

Conclusion

In conclusion, water-based fire extinguishers should not be used for electrical fires. While water-based extinguishers are effective for ordinary solid fires, their use on electrical fires can lead to serious safety risks due to water’s conductivity. The proper approach is to use fire extinguishers that are specifically designed for electrical fires, such as CO2 or dry powder extinguishers. If you are unsure which fire extinguisher to use, please consult Tenglong Fire Technology Co., Ltd. We provide expert advice and top-quality products for all your fire safety needs.

We hope that you will enhance your fire safety awareness and learn the correct methods to handle fires, ensuring the safety of yourself and your loved ones. For more information, feel free to contact our customer service team, and we will provide you with a complete fire safety solution.