While in the engine control room you smell smoke and see it coming from the vent in the main switchboard panel. Which of the many different types of extinguishers, if any, are required to be in that space and why would it be best suited to extinguish this class of fire?

Correct Answer: Option B — A portable CO2 extinguisher as it will smother the fire while limiting the clean up and damage to the area around the fire.

CO2 is the preferred agent for electrical fires because it is non-conductive and leaves no residue. Unlike dry chemical, which can cause significant collateral damage to sensitive electronic components and switchboard contacts, CO2 smothers the fire while protecting the integrity of the electrical equipment.