Which type of fire does a Carbon Dioxide fire extinguisher work best for?

A Carbon Dioxide (CO2) fire extinguisher is most effective for electrical fires because it works by displacing oxygen, which is necessary for combustion, and it does not conduct electricity. This makes it a safe option for use on live electrical equipment, as it minimizes the risk of electrocution and further igniting combustible materials.

CO2 extinguishers do not leave any residue, making them ideal for protecting sensitive electronic devices. They can also be used on flammable liquid fires; however, their primary recommendation is for electrical fires due to their ability to quickly extinguish flames without causing additional hazards or damage.

While the other types of fires listed—chemical, wood and paper, and flammable liquid—might be addressed with different extinctions, CO2 is specifically tailored to handle electrical fires safely and effectively.