What should firefighters use to extinguish a fire with primarily electrical components?

Using Class C extinguishers is the appropriate choice for extinguishing fires that involve primarily electrical components. Class C extinguishers are specifically designed to combat fires involving energized electrical equipment. They typically use non-conductive agents such as dry chemicals or carbon dioxide, which effectively smother the flames without posing a risk of electrical shock to the firefighters or additional hazards to the equipment.

Water, on the other hand, should be avoided for electrical fires as it is a conductive substance. Using water can create a severe risk of electrical shock and can spread the fire if it flows into other areas. Foam extinguishers are generally used for flammable liquid fires and are not suitable for electrical fires due to the potential for conductivity. Class B extinguishers are designed for flammable liquids rather than electrical components, making them less effective for this scenario. In summary, Class C extinguishers are tailored for safely and effectively addressing fires that are fueled by electrical equipment, ensuring both firefighter safety and fire suppression.