What should you not use on live electrical equipment?

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Water should not be used on live electrical equipment because it conducts electricity. When water contacts energized circuits, it can carry current to you or others, creating a shock or arc‑flash hazard and potentially spreading the fire or damaging the equipment further. In fires involving energized gear, you want nonconductive extinguishing methods, such as dry chemical powders or carbon dioxide, which smother the fire or displace the oxygen without forming a conductive path. Foam is also water-based, so it carries the same risk as water. If it’s safe to do so, de-energize the equipment first, then apply an appropriate nonconductive extinguisher.