Fire Extinguisher for Electrical Fire: CO2 vs ABE
What fire extinguisher should you use for an electrical fire in Australia?
For a fire involving energised electrical equipment, the commonly used extinguisher options include an appropriately rated CO2 (carbon dioxide) extinguisher or BE/ABE dry chemical powder extinguisher.
Never use a water extinguisher on an electrical fire while the equipment is energised. Australian fire-service guidance specifically recommends CO2 or appropriately rated BE/ABE dry powder for electrical fire risks.
The right extinguisher depends on the electrical equipment, surrounding fire risks, extinguisher rating and the requirements applying to the location.
This guide explains which fire extinguisher to use for an electrical fire, the difference between CO2 and ABE, what extinguishers to avoid, and how to choose the right electrical fire extinguisher in Australia.
What Fire Extinguisher Is Used for an Electrical Fire?
For a fire involving energised electrical equipment, CO2 and BE/ABE dry chemical powder extinguishers are commonly used options.
Fire and Rescue NSW identifies the following extinguishing media for fires involving energised electrical equipment:
BE and ABE powder
Carbon dioxide (CO2)
Vaporising liquid
Fire and Rescue NSW specifically lists fuse boxes and computer equipment as examples of electrical fire risks.
Metropolitan Fire Service South Australia also advises that water should never be used to extinguish an electrical fire and recommends a dry powder extinguisher with an ABE or BE rating, or a carbon dioxide extinguisher.
For many Australian applications, the two extinguisher types people most commonly compare are therefore:
CO2 fire extinguisher
CO2 is particularly useful around electrical and electronic equipment because it does not leave powder residue.
ABE dry chemical powder extinguisher
ABE powder provides broader fire coverage, including applicable Class A and Class B fire risks as well as electrical fire risks.
The best choice depends on the specific hazards in the location.
CO2 vs ABE: Which Is Better for an Electrical Fire?
There is no single answer that applies to every location.
Both CO2 and appropriately rated ABE extinguishers can be used for relevant electrical fire risks, but they have different characteristics.
Feature | CO2 Extinguisher | ABE Powder Extinguisher |
Energised electrical equipment | Suitable when appropriately rated | Suitable when appropriately rated |
Electrical/electronic equipment | Particularly useful | Suitable |
Class A combustibles | Limited | Suitable |
Class B flammable liquids | Suitable where appropriately rated | Suitable |
Residue | No powder residue | Leaves powder residue |
Computers/electronics | Advantage where residue is a concern | Powder may contaminate equipment |
General-purpose coverage | More limited | Broader |
Typical applications | Electrical equipment, computers, switchboards | Workshops, workplaces, vehicles and mixed fire risks |
Fire and Rescue NSW lists both CO2 and BE/ABE powder for fires involving energised electrical equipment.
When CO2 may be preferred
CO2 is often considered where the main concern is electrical or electronic equipment and avoiding powder contamination.
Examples include:
Computers
Servers
Switchboards
Control panels
Electrical machinery
Office equipment
Laboratory equipment
Telecommunications equipment
When ABE may be preferred
ABE powder may be more appropriate where electrical equipment is located alongside other combustible or flammable materials.
For example, a workshop might have:
Electrical machinery
Paper or cardboard
Plastics
Flammable liquids
Other Class A or Class B fire risks
An appropriately rated ABE extinguisher can provide broader coverage than CO2.
Can You Use a CO2 Fire Extinguisher on an Electrical Fire?
Yes.
An appropriately rated CO2 extinguisher can be used for fires involving energised electrical equipment.
CO2 is particularly useful because it does not leave the powder residue associated with dry chemical extinguishers.
This can be important when protecting:
Computers
Servers
Switchboards
Electrical control panels
Machinery
Communications equipment
Other sensitive electronic equipment
Fire and Rescue NSW specifically identifies carbon dioxide as an extinguishing medium for fires involving energised electrical equipment.
However, CO2 is not a universal fire extinguisher. If surrounding materials have also caught fire, the fire may require an extinguisher with a different rating or extinguishing medium.
Can You Use an ABE Fire Extinguisher on an Electrical Fire?
Yes, when the extinguisher is appropriately rated.
ABE dry chemical powder extinguishers are commonly used for electrical fire risks as well as Class A and Class B fire risks.
Fire and Rescue NSW lists both BE and ABE powder for fires involving energised electrical equipment.
MFS South Australia similarly identifies ABE or BE dry powder as an option for electrical fires.
The major disadvantage compared with CO2 is that dry powder leaves residue after discharge.
For a workshop or mixed-risk environment, however, the broader coverage of an ABE extinguisher can be an important advantage.
Can You Use Water on an Electrical Fire?
No — never use a water extinguisher on an energised electrical fire.
Water conducts electricity and can create a serious electric-shock hazard.
Fire and Rescue NSW states that a water extinguisher must never be used on a fire involving electrical equipment.
MFS South Australia likewise states:
“Never use water to extinguish an electrical fire.”
Instead, use an extinguisher specifically suitable for the electrical fire risk, such as an appropriately rated CO2 or BE/ABE dry powder extinguisher.
What About a Foam Fire Extinguisher?
A foam extinguisher should not be treated as a substitute for a specifically suitable electrical-fire extinguisher while equipment remains energised.
If you are dealing with an electrical fire, check the extinguisher's label and rating and use equipment specifically intended for that hazard.
The safest approach is to have the electrical supply isolated by a competent person where this can be done safely, while recognising that switching off power does not automatically make the entire fire safe.
What Fire Extinguisher Should I Use for a Switchboard Fire?
A CO2 or appropriately rated BE/ABE powder extinguisher may be suitable for a fire involving an electrical switchboard.
CO2 can be particularly useful where avoiding powder contamination is important.
For larger commercial or industrial electrical installations, extinguisher selection and placement should be based on the actual fire risk and applicable requirements rather than simply choosing an extinguisher based on its size.
The National Construction Code recognises that portable extinguishers are provided according to the building's use, fire hazards and other fire-safety systems, with AS 2444 providing specific guidance on selection and location.
What Fire Extinguisher Should I Use for a Computer or Server Room?
For electrical and electronic equipment, CO2 is often considered because it leaves no powder residue.
This can be advantageous for:
Computers
Servers
Network equipment
Control systems
Communications equipment
Electronic machinery
However, the correct fire protection system for a server room should consider more than just a portable extinguisher.
Fire detection, electrical safety, emergency procedures and the overall fire protection strategy should also be considered.
Can You Use a Fire Extinguisher on an Electrical Fire Before Turning Off the Power?
If an electrical fire involves energised equipment, the extinguisher must be specifically suitable for that risk.
Do not put yourself in danger trying to isolate the power.
If the electrical supply can be safely isolated, doing so can remove the electrical hazard. However, electrical systems can remain dangerous even after a circuit has been switched off, and some equipment may have stored electrical energy.
Do not touch damaged electrical equipment or exposed conductors.
For serious electrical incidents, evacuate and call 000.
What About Electrical Fires in Homes?
Electrical fires can occur in:
Power points
Power boards
Appliances
Chargers
Extension leads
Switchboards
Air conditioners
Computers
Washing machines
Refrigerators
Other electrical equipment
MFS South Australia recommends CO2 or appropriately rated ABE/BE dry powder for electrical fires in domestic situations and advises against using water on electrical fires.
A fire extinguisher should only be used on a small, contained fire when the person using it is confident and physically capable of doing so and has a safe escape route.
What About Electrical Fires in the Workplace?
Workplaces can have significantly different electrical fire risks depending on the equipment and activities taking place.
Potential electrical fire hazards include:
Switchboards
Machinery
Motors
Computers
Servers
Manufacturing equipment
Battery chargers
Electrical control panels
Workshop equipment
Fire and Rescue NSW recommends ensuring workplace fire equipment is suitable for the specific fire risks and gives CO2 extinguishers for electrical fires as an example. It also recommends regular maintenance of fire equipment and appropriate training for workers who may need to use it.
For commercial premises, extinguisher selection and placement should be assessed against the applicable building, fire-safety and workplace requirements.
What About Lithium-Ion Battery Fires?
This is an important distinction.
A lithium-ion battery fire is not simply the same thing as an ordinary electrical equipment fire.
For a small battery or device that is overheating or on fire, Fire and Rescue NSW advises that trained people may use a nearby dry chemical powder or CO2 extinguisher from a safe distance to help prevent the fire spreading to surrounding materials. However, these extinguishers may not fully extinguish a lithium-ion battery fire, and the battery can reignite.
If a lithium-ion battery is smoking, overheating or on fire:
Avoid the smoke and fumes.
Do not handle a swollen, damaged or ruptured battery.
Evacuate if the situation is unsafe.
Call 000.
Do not assume that extinguishing visible flames means the battery is safe.
This is particularly important for e-bikes, e-scooters, power banks, laptops, phones, battery storage systems and electric vehicles.
What Size Electrical Fire Extinguisher Do I Need?
There is no single extinguisher size that is correct for every electrical fire risk.
The appropriate size depends on:
The type of electrical equipment
The surrounding fire hazards
The size of the potential fire
The extinguisher's fire rating
The location
Required travel distances
Applicable Australian requirements
For example, a small office electrical risk may require a different arrangement from a commercial workshop, electrical room or industrial facility.
Do not select an extinguisher simply because it has a larger kilogram capacity.
The fire rating and suitability for the particular hazard are more important than weight alone.
Where Should an Electrical Fire Extinguisher Be Located?
Fire extinguishers should be readily accessible and positioned where people can reach them without having to pass through the fire.
Fire and Rescue NSW recommends extinguishers be located in conspicuous, readily accessible locations and recommends maintaining a minimum 1000 mm clearance around each extinguisher.
The National Construction Code also states that extinguishers should be located in plain view, along normal paths of travel and near exits where possible, and should not be located in hazardous places.
The exact selection and location requirements depend on the building and fire risks.
How Do You Use a Fire Extinguisher on an Electrical Fire?
Only attempt to extinguish a fire if:
The fire is small and contained.
You have the correct extinguisher.
You know how to use it.
You have a clear escape route.
You can do so without exposing yourself to smoke, heat or electrical hazards.
The basic PASS method is:
1. Pull
Pull the safety pin or remove the safety mechanism.
2. Aim
Aim at the base of the fire while maintaining a safe distance.
3. Squeeze
Squeeze the operating handle.
4. Sweep
Sweep the discharge across the base of the fire as appropriate.
Fire and Rescue NSW describes PASS as the four basic steps for operating modern portable fire extinguishers.
Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific extinguisher.
If the fire does not immediately respond, becomes larger or threatens your escape route, stop and evacuate.
Call 000.
What Should You Never Do During an Electrical Fire?
Never:
Use a water extinguisher on energised electrical equipment.
Touch exposed electrical conductors.
Put yourself between the fire and your escape route.
Attempt to fight a fire that is too large for a portable extinguisher.
Re-enter a building because the visible flames have disappeared.
Assume an electrical fire is safe simply because the power has been switched off.
Handle damaged or swollen lithium-ion batteries.
Your safety comes first.
Australian fire services consistently advise calling 000, evacuating people and only attempting to extinguish a small fire when it is safe to do so.
CO2 or ABE: Which Electrical Fire Extinguisher Should You Choose?
The answer depends on the fire risks surrounding the electrical equipment.
Choose CO2 when:
Electrical equipment is the primary fire risk.
Avoiding powder residue is important.
Computers, servers or sensitive electronics are involved.
The extinguisher has the appropriate rating.
Consider ABE powder when:
Electrical equipment is located alongside Class A combustibles.
Flammable liquids are also present.
A broader range of fire risks needs to be covered.
Powder residue is acceptable for the application.
Neither extinguisher should be selected solely because it is described as an “electrical fire extinguisher”.
Always check the extinguisher's actual rating and suitability for the fire risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fire extinguisher should I use for an electrical fire?
For an electrical fire involving energised equipment, an appropriately rated CO2 or BE/ABE dry chemical powder extinguisher can be suitable. Never use a water extinguisher on energised electrical equipment.
Can you use a CO2 fire extinguisher on an electrical fire?
Yes. CO2 extinguishers are commonly used for fires involving energised electrical equipment and leave no powder residue. The extinguisher must be appropriately rated for the application.
Can you use an ABE fire extinguisher on an electrical fire?
Yes. Appropriately rated ABE dry powder extinguishers can be used for electrical fire risks as well as their applicable Class A and Class B fire risks.
Is CO2 or ABE better for an electrical fire?
Both can be suitable for electrical fire risks. CO2 has the advantage of leaving no powder residue, while ABE powder provides broader coverage for mixed fire risks. The appropriate choice depends on the specific hazards and extinguisher rating.
Can you use water on an electrical fire?
No. Do not use a water extinguisher on an energised electrical fire. Water can create a serious electric-shock hazard.
What is the best fire extinguisher for a switchboard?
An appropriately rated CO2 or BE/ABE dry powder extinguisher may be suitable for a switchboard fire. The correct selection depends on the switchboard and surrounding fire risks.
What fire extinguisher is suitable for computers?
CO2 is commonly used around computers and electronic equipment because it does not leave powder residue. The extinguisher must be appropriately rated and suitable for the particular fire risk.
What size electrical fire extinguisher do I need?
The correct size depends on the fire risk, location, required fire rating and applicable requirements. Kilogram capacity alone should not be used to determine suitability.
Can CO2 extinguish a lithium-ion battery fire?
CO2 may help prevent a small lithium-ion battery fire from spreading to surrounding materials, but it may not fully extinguish the battery fire. Lithium-ion batteries can reignite, so emergency services should be contacted and the situation treated as a serious fire hazard.
Do electrical fires still pose a risk after the power is switched off?
Yes. Electrical equipment can remain hazardous after power is isolated, and some systems can contain stored electrical energy. Do not touch damaged electrical equipment or exposed conductors.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right fire extinguisher for an electrical fire is about matching the extinguisher to the actual fire risk.
For energised electrical equipment, the main options commonly encountered in Australia are:
CO2 — particularly useful around electrical and electronic equipment because it leaves no powder residue.
BE/ABE dry powder — suitable for applicable electrical fire risks while also providing broader coverage for other fire classes.
Water — not suitable for an energised electrical fire.
For workplaces and commercial premises, extinguisher selection and location should be based on the specific hazards and applicable Australian requirements. The National Construction Code recognises that extinguisher provision depends on the building's function, fire hazards and other fire-safety systems, with AS 2444 providing specific selection and location guidance.
If an electrical fire occurs, raise the alarm, evacuate people, call 000 and only attempt to extinguish a small fire if it is safe to do so and you have the correct equipment.
Fire Products Direct supplies CO2 and ABE fire extinguishers for a range of Australian electrical and mixed fire risks - Call Us 02 8313 5404
This article provides general information only and is not a substitute for professional advice. It is not customised for any individual's specific situation. Always consult with a qualified professional for personalised guidance.
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