Why should water not be used on energized electrical equipment during firefighting?

• A. Water conducts electricity and can cause electrocution; circuits should be de-energized and non-conductive extinguishing agents used.
• B. Water is safe to use on energized equipment.
• C. Water will always cool and stop the fire.
• D. Water is the best extinguishing agent for electrical fires.

Answer: (C)

Water should not be used on energized electrical equipment because it conducts electricity. When live gear is sprayed, the water can carry current and create a hazardous path to anyone nearby, risking electrocution. The safe approach is to de-energize or isolate the power first, then use non-conductive extinguishing agents such as dry chemical powders, CO2, or clean agents designed for electrical fires. Cooling the equipment with water does not remove the electrical hazard, and the fire can continue or spread if the source remains energized. So the idea that water will always cool and stop the fire isn’t correct.