Why isn't water a good extinguishing agent for electrical fires?

Water is not a suitable extinguishing agent for electrical fires primarily because it conducts electricity, which adds to the hazards present during an electrical fire. When water is used on an electrical fire, there is a significant risk that the water can create additional pathways for the electrical current, potentially leading to electrocution or further spread of the fire.

In addition to this, water can be ineffective in smothering the fire as it may not adequately reach the base of the flames where the electrical source is located. Furthermore, the physical challenges of using water—such as its ability to create splashes and lack of precise application—can make controlling the situation more difficult. Thus, the presence of electricity poses a unique danger that makes water an unsafe choice for extinguishing electrical fires.