Fire has different types, and each one requires a different approach to be tackled. One such type is class C fire, which involves electric equipment, wiring and appliances. These fires are fueled by electricity, making them potentially dangerous if handled in the wrong way.
Class C fires can occur in homes, workplaces, and industrial settings due to faulty wiring or overloaded outlets. Understanding what is c class fire and how to prevent, tackle, and safely extinguish it is crucial to minimise risk and ensure safety in the surroundings.
What are Class C Fires?
Properly identifying a fire class helps firefighters and people choose the right fire extinguisher and adopt safety measures to handle the situation effectively.
Wondering class C fire is what type of fire? Energised electrical equipment, such as circuits, breakers, power chords, transformers or any electrical appliance, cause a class C fire. Since electricity is the fuel source, one cannot extinguish class C fire with water. In fact, water is a conductor of electricity and increases the risk of electrocution.
How To Prevent a Class C Fire?
It’s impossible to eliminate all risks of a class C fire, but there are several ways to reduce the likelihood of it.
- Inspect wiring regularly: Looking for frayed or damaged power cords and replacing them instantly can eliminate the risk of fire.
- Avoid overloading outlets: Do not plug too many devices into a single outlet, minimising the chance of overheating and sparks.
- Keep electrical areas clean: Dust around outlets or electrical panels can cause a fire.
- Checking for smells or sparks: If you notice a burning smell or see sparks from any appliance, unplug it immediately and get it checked by an electrician.
- Use certified electricians: Only professionals should install, maintain, and be responsible for repairing electrical systems. Do not try to do it yourself.
Regular inspections and proactive equipment replacements are key to fire safety. Ensure that all employees or household members know how to respond to an electrical fire and be ready for any emergency.
Tackling a Class C Fire
If you ever come across a class C fire, the first step is to turn off the main power source if it’s safe to do so. Cutting off the electricity stops the fire from growing. Once the power is off, the fire may then be treated with the right extinguisher, depending on the materials that are burning and the cause of the fire.
Here are the different fire extinguishers and what are class c extinguishers used for:
- Dry chemical fire extinguishers: These have a blue label on them. The best choice for putting out an electrical fire is this, as it does not conduct electricity.
- A carbon dioxide extinguisher: A CO2 fire extinguisher removes oxygen and cools the fire without leaving any residue.
What not to do?
- Never use water or foam: Water conducts electricity and increases the risk of electrocution. Foam fire extinguishers or wet chemical fire extinguishers are also not suitable for Class C fires.
- Avoid direct contact with the electrical equipment: If a fire starts in an electrical panel, do not try to touch it or open it. It calls emergency services instead.
- Stand at a distance: Electrical fires can spread rapidly and may produce toxic fumes, so safety should always be prioritised.
Class C Fires – Characteristics And Challenges
Class C fires pose unique risks, especially when they occur in critical infrastructure like power grids, transformers and renewable energy sources.
Transformer fires
Transformer fires and electrical transformers contain oil that can leak and cause fuel fires. These fires require suppression techniques to prevent environmental contamination and extensive damage.
Electric Power Grid
Electric power grid age and infrastructure, severe weather and high energy demands can lead to an electric fire within the power grid. These fires can disturb electricity supplies and require advanced fire separation strategies to prevent blackouts.
Lithium-ion Batteries and Solar Panels
Lithium-ion batteries can overheat and enter a state of thermal runaway, leading to uncontrollable fires and explosions. Fires involving lithium-ion batteries give out toxic fumes and are difficult to extinguish as they generate their own oxygen supply.
Even when disconnected from the main power supply, solar panels can continue generating electricity, posing a risk of electric shock and reignition. Fires in solar energy systems require specialised firefighting approaches.
Buy Extinguishers As Your Best Defence Against Class C Fires
Electrical fires are unpredictable and hazardous, but the right fire extinguisher can make all the difference between a minor incident and a major disaster. Investing in a class C-rated fire extinguisher ensures that you are prepared to handle electrical fire safely without the risk of electrocution or further damage.
With options like dry powder fire extinguishers, you can confidently protect your home office or industrial space from fire hazards. These extinguishers act by cutting off the fire fuel source and preventing it from spreading.
Don’t wait for an emergency to take action. Keep your space with the right fire extinguisher today, and stay prepared for any electrical fire hazard!
FAQs
What is a class C Fire example?
Examples of class C Fires include:
- A short circuit
- An overheated laptop battery that catches fire
- A damaged power cord sparking fire
What is the symbol for a class C fire extinguisher?
The symbol for class C fires is a blue circle, indicating that the fire involves electrical equipment and requires a non-conductive extinguishing agent.
Which fire extinguisher is best for classifying the best extinguisher?
Class C fires include :
- ABC extinguisher: Common in households and offices
- Carbon dioxide extinguisher: Common in electrical panels and server rooms
- Clean agent extinguisher: Best for sensitive electronic equipment
What do class C fires contain?
Class C fires involve electrical equipment, which may include wires, transformers, circuits, and appliances.
Can a class C fire reignite?
Yes, even after extinguishing the flames, the fire hazard remains as long as the power source is connected. It’s important to disconnect electricity and monitor the area until all the risk is eliminated.
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