Class C fires are primarily related to what type of equipment?

Class C fires are primarily associated with energized electrical equipment. This classification indicates that the fire involves electrical components, such as wiring, circuit breakers, motors, and appliances. The unique risk with Class C fires is that they can pose hazards not only from the flames themselves but also from the possibility of electric shock or further electrical failures if water or certain extinguishing agents are used incorrectly.

Understanding that Class C fires are linked specifically to electrical issues is crucial because it informs the appropriate response to these incidents. Firefighters are trained to use non-conductive extinguishing agents, such as carbon dioxide or dry chemical extinguishers, to mitigate the risk of electrocution while effectively combating the fire. In distinguishing these fires from other classes, the electrical component is the defining characteristic that dictates both the type of hazards present and the tactics for safe firefighting.