Once power has been shut off, most class C fires can be tackled as which class of fire?

When power has been shut off, most Class C fires, which involve energized electrical equipment, can be tackled as Class A or Class B fires because they often involve flammable solids (like wood or paper) or flammable liquids (like gasoline or oil).

Class A fires consist of common combustible materials such as wood, cloth, paper, rubber, and many plastics. Once the electrical source is de-energized, these materials may ignite and can be extinguished using water or Class A fire extinguishers.

Class B fires involve flammable liquids and gases, which can also be present in scenarios where a Class C fire transitions to another type of fire once the electrical power is no longer a factor. In this case, extinguishing agents specific to Class B, such as foam or dry chemical extinguishers, may be suitable.

Understanding that Class C fires are tied to electrified equipment is crucial. The moment power is disengaged, the fire can be treated as a traditional structure (Class A) or liquid (Class B) fire, allowing for appropriate firefighting methods to be employed based on the materials involved.