What type of fire cannot be extinguished with water?

An electrical fire cannot be extinguished with water because water is a conductor of electricity. Using water on an electrical fire poses a significant risk of electric shock and can potentially spread the fire due to the conductive properties of water. When dealing with electrical equipment or wiring, it is crucial to cut off the power source and use appropriate fire extinguishing agents, such as a Class C fire extinguisher, which is specifically designed for electrical fires. This type of extinguisher uses non-conductive chemicals to safely put out the flames without the risk of electric shock.

When considering the other types of fires listed, they can generally be extinguished with water. For example, paper and wood fires, being solid combustible materials, can be effectively extinguished by applying water to cool and smother the flames. Gasoline fires, while also dangerous and highly flammable, can be extinguished with foam or dry chemicals rather than water, as water may spread the fuel instead of putting it out. However, electric fires clearly stand apart due to the inherent risks associated with water and electricity.