What is the best way to extinguish a Class C fire?

The best way to extinguish a Class C fire involves first shutting off the power to remove the electrical source of the fire before attempting to extinguish it. Class C fires are associated with energized electrical equipment, and it is critical to ensure that the equipment is de-energized to avoid electrical shock hazards while extinguishing the fire. By treating it as a Class A or B fire after cutting the power, the appropriate extinguisher can be utilized safely, relying on either water (for Class A) or chemicals (for Class B) depending on what materials are involved once the electrical source is eliminated.

When dealing specifically with electrical fires, using a Class C extinguisher can also be effective; however, safety must always include ensuring that the power is shut off first. Allowing the fire to burn itself out poses serious safety risks and does not achieve fire control. Simply shutting off the fuel flow only applies if the fire has a distinct flammable fuel source, which is less applicable to Class C fires that are primarily electrical in nature. Thus, proactively cutting the power makes it safer to extinguish at that point.