What constitutes a Class "C" fire?

A Class "C" fire involves flammable materials in an electrical form, meaning it specifically pertains to fires caused by energized electrical equipment. When electrical devices or systems, such as electrical panels, short circuit or fail, they can ignite surrounding materials or cause fires directly.

The understanding of fire classes is essential in determining the appropriate fire suppression methods. Class "C" fires require the use of non-conductive extinguishing agents, such as carbon dioxide or dry chemical extinguishers, to safely and effectively suppress the fire without posing a risk of electrocution.

The other options, such as coal bunkers, fuel tanks, and lumber piles, represent Class "A" fires, which are fueled by ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, and other solid materials. These fires require water or other Class "A" extinguishing agents and are not related to electrical equipment, disqualifying them from being categorized as Class "C."