Why are CO2 fire extinguishers typically preferred over dry chemical extinguishers for electrical fires?

CO2 fire extinguishers are preferred over dry chemical extinguishers for electrical fires primarily because the use of dry chemical agents can leave a residue that may damage sensitive electrical equipment. This residue can be corrosive or conductive, potentially leading to short circuits or further operational issues after the fire has been extinguished. CO2 extinguishers, on the other hand, discharge carbon dioxide, which is a clean agent that does not leave any harmful residue on electrical components, making it safe for use around delicate electronic systems.

This characteristic of CO2 extinguishers ensures that after an electrical fire is controlled, there is a significantly reduced risk of causing additional damage while cleaning up or seeking to restore the equipment to working order. Therefore, in contexts where electronic devices or systems are involved, CO2 extinguishers are the preferred choice.