What is the primary method of extinguishing electrical fires?

Cutting off the electrical supply is the primary method of extinguishing electrical fires because it directly eliminates the source of the ignition. By disconnecting the power, you remove the electrical energy that is sustaining the fire, which is crucial for extinguishing it safely.

Using water on electrical fires can be extremely dangerous due to the risk of electrocution; since water conducts electricity, applying it can lead to severe hazards for both the firefighter and anyone nearby. Coating with salt is not a recognized method for extinguishing electrical fires and does not effectively remove the electrical source or suppress the flames. Using carbon dioxide can be effective for some types of fire, including electrical, as it displaces oxygen and cools the material. However, it is secondary to the safety measure of first cutting off the electrical supply, as this is the best way to ensure that the fire does not reignite or cause further hazards.

Understanding the importance of cutting off the electrical supply not only aids in extinguishing the fire but also ensures that firefighting efforts can proceed more safely and effectively.