NIC Esthetician Written ExamSafety and Infection ControlHard
Which type of fire extinguisher is specifically designed for electrical fires (Class C) and is generally recommended for salons with electrical equipment?
- AWater (Class A)
- BCarbon Dioxide (CO2) (Class B, C)
- CDry Chemical (Class A, B, C)
- DWet Chemical (Class K)
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Carbon Dioxide (CO2) (Class B, C)
Carbon Dioxide (CO2) extinguishers are effective for Class B (flammable liquids) and Class C (electrical) fires. They work by displacing oxygen and cooling the fire without leaving a residue, which is ideal for electrical equipment in a salon setting where water could cause electrocution and dry chemicals could damage electronics. Dry chemical (ABC) is also suitable, but CO2 is often preferred for electronics.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Water extinguishers are for Class A (ordinary combustibles) and are extremely dangerous to use on electrical fires due to the risk of electrocution.
- C. Dry chemical (ABC) extinguishers are multi-purpose and can be used on electrical fires, but they leave a corrosive residue that can damage sensitive electronics.
- D. Wet chemical (Class K) extinguishers are specifically designed for cooking oil/grease fires (Class K) and are not appropriate for electrical fires.
Fire Extinguisher Types (Salon)
Understanding the different classes of fire extinguishers and their appropriate uses is critical for salon safety, especially for electrical fires common with esthetic equipment.
- Class A: Ordinary combustibles (wood, paper).
- Class B: Flammable liquids (oils, solvents).
- Class C: Electrical equipment (live wires).
- Class K: Cooking oils/grease.
- CO2 (B, C) and Dry Chemical (ABC) are common in salons.
Memory trick: Fire Type to Extinguisher: Know your ABCs, and CO2 for electric.