What type of hazard does a Class C fire extinguisher address?

A Class C fire extinguisher is specifically designed to combat fires involving electrical equipment. These types of fires can occur when electrical devices, wiring, or circuits overheat, short-circuit, or malfunction, leading to ignition.

The extinguishing agents used in Class C fire extinguishers are non-conductive, which is essential for safely putting out electrical fires without the risk of electrical shock. Using water or other conductive materials would pose a significant risk of electrocution to anyone attempting to extinguish such a fire.

Understanding this classification is critical for firefighters and anyone involved in fire safety, as it ensures the correct type of extinguisher is used in a situation involving electrical hazards, minimizing risks to both personnel and property. The other types of hazards referred to in the other options are covered by different classes of fire extinguishers, which emphasize the importance of using the appropriate extinguisher based on the nature of the fire.