Which of the following types of fire extinguishers should be used on electrical fires?

The use of carbon dioxide fire extinguishers on electrical fires is appropriate due to their ability to effectively displace oxygen around the fire while leaving no residue that could cause additional damage to electrical equipment. When dealing with electrical fires, it is crucial to use an extinguisher that will not conduct electricity. Carbon dioxide is a non-conductive gas, making it safe for use on energized electrical equipment.

In contrast, other options such as fire-resistant blankets or sodium bicarbonate are not specifically designed for electrical fires. Fire blankets are more suitable for small fires involving combustible materials or when smothering flames is necessary, but they do not address the unique hazards of an electrical fire. Sodium bicarbonate can be effective for small fires, including grease fires, but it may not be as effective or safe on electrical fires as carbon dioxide.

Soda-acid extinguishers, while capable of putting out some types of fires, are not ideal for electrical fires since they utilize water as a part of the extinguishing agent. Water conducts electricity, which could potentially lead to electrocution or worsen the fire. Therefore, the correct choice in responding to electrical fires is a carbon dioxide extinguisher, emphasizing its safety and effectiveness in such situations.