How to Put Out an Electrical Fire

How to Put Out an Electrical Fire

An electrical fire requires a specific response. Using water on an energized electrical fire can cause electrocution — water conducts electricity and will carry voltage back to anyone holding the hose or bucket. The correct response depends on whether you can safely de-energize the circuit and whether the fire is still small enough to address with an extinguisher.

Immediate Steps

• If the source is a plugged-in appliance or power bar, unplug it immediately if it is safe to do so without getting close to flames or smoke
• If the fire is at the panel or in the wall, shut off the main breaker if it is accessible and safe to reach
• If neither is safe, evacuate the building immediately and call 911 — do not attempt to fight a structural fire

Using a Fire Extinguisher

• Use only a Class C or ABC dry chemical fire extinguisher on electrical fires — these are rated for energized equipment
• Never use water, a Class A extinguisher, or a CO2 extinguisher in a small enclosed space where the discharge can displace oxygen and create an asphyxiation hazard
• If the fire is still small (contained to the appliance or outlet) and you have a rated extinguisher, use the PASS technique: Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, Sweep side to side
• After using an extinguisher, evacuate anyway and call 911 — smoldering may continue in the wall cavity

After the Fire

Never restore power to a circuit involved in an electrical fire without having a licensed electrician inspect and replace the affected wiring, outlets, and devices. Fire-damaged wiring may arc or reignite. EZSMART provides post-fire electrical inspection and remediation across Ontario. Contact us to assess and restore electrical safety after an incident.

Amir Azimipour

Electrician Since 2008 Journeyman Electrician Designated Master Electrician at EZSMART Corp