Can you use a foam fire extinguisher on an electric fire?

When it comes to fire safety, the more informed you are, the better. 

Fire safety in the home requires you to consider lots of different points. Each room has its own specific points of risk which you will need to be mindful of. 

What’s more, many of the devices within your home will require their own specific fire safety responses. This is because, if they have caught fire, some electrical items can be put out by using a fire extinguisher. However, fire extinguishers may prove ineffective when attempting to deal with other electrical items that have caught fire. Or, in some cases, using a fire extinguisher may actually pose a significant danger. 

So, it is absolutely vital that you know of these potential hazards, and make yourself aware of the appropriate response to take if a fire does occur. 

One of the most common questions that our team gets asked is ‘can you use a foam fire extinguisher on an electric fire?’. 

We completely understand why this could cause some confusion, as electric fires are a large device, which is connected to the mains and embedded within the walls of your property. 

But worry no longer – we’re here to clarify this matter. 

In response to your questions – yes, you can use a foam fire extinguisher on an electric fire. 

Foam fire extinguishers work by expelling a large volume of foam, directly onto the fire. This cuts off the fire’s access to oxygen. As a result, the fire is quickly put out. 

It’s important to note that, if you are using a foam fire extinguisher on an electric fire, you will need to check that the extinguisher has been tested to a point of 35,000 volts. If so, then you can use it. In addition, in the event that you do need to use the extinguisher, be sure to keep a distance of at least 1 metre between yourself and the fire.