How should you extinguish a small electrical fire on board?

• A. Use the appropriate fire extinguisher, aim at the base of the fire, and sweep side to side until the fire is out.
• B. Splash water on it.
• C. Cover with a blanket.
• D. Evacuate and do nothing.

Answer: (A)

When dealing with a small electrical fire on board, the priority is to disrupt the fire with the proper extinguishing agent and apply it to the source. Use the appropriate fire extinguisher for electrical fires, and attack the flames at their base. Aim the nozzle at the base of the fire and sweep side to side until the fire is out. This approach cools and blankets the burning material, reducing heat and preventing re-ignition, while avoiding electricity-conducting water.

Water is unsuitable because it conducts electricity and can cause shocks or spread the current. A blanket might smother the flames but won’t reliably reach or cool energized equipment. Doing nothing isn’t an option when a fire is present.