Explain why, fire caused by electricity should not be extinguished by pouring water.
ScienceClass 8ICSEAnswered 28 Mar 2026
Answer
Answer
The most common fire extinguisher is water. But waterworks only when things like wood and paper are on fire. If electrical equipment is on fire, water may conduct electricity and harm those trying to douse the fire. For fires involving electrical equipment and inflammable materials like petrol, carbon dioxide (CO2) is the best extinguisher. CO2, being heavier than oxygen, covers the fire like a blanket. Since the contact between the fuel and oxygen is cut off, the fire is controlled. The added advantage of CO2 is that in most cases it does not harm the electrical equipment.
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