Which type of fire extinguisher is suitable for electrical fires?

The suitable type of fire extinguisher for electrical fires is the DCP (Dry Chemical Powder) extinguisher. This extinguisher effectively suppresses electrical fires because it works by interrupting the chemical reaction of the fire and can be safely used on energized electrical equipment. DCP extinguishers usually contain a dry chemical like monoammonium phosphate, which not only extinguishes the fire but is also non-conductive, making it safe for use around electricity.

In the case of a water extinguisher, using it on an electrical fire can be extremely dangerous, as water is a conductor of electricity and can lead to electric shock or further fire hazards. Foam extinguishers, while effective on flammable liquid fires, are also not suitable for electrical fires for similar reasons; they can conduct electricity. Ordinary dry chemical extinguishers can be beneficial for a range of fires, but it's essential to ensure that they are specifically rated for electrical fires, as not all forms of dry chemical extinguishers are necessarily safe on electrical equipment.

Hence, the DCP extinguisher is specifically designed to handle such scenarios, providing a safe and effective means to combat electrical fires.