The Benefits and Drawbacks of using Co2 Extinguishers

Co2 extinguishers are not appropriate for all types of small fires. Some fires can be spread by using a Co2 extinguisher, although some fires can be put out rapidly with a Co2 extinguisher. Knowing when and how to use the Co2 extinguisher can save your life, not to mention your property.

The canister of a Co2 extinguisher holds carbon dioxide in a tightly packed compound of liquid. When you release the compound into the air, the liquid compound converts into a mist of dry ice. this mist smothers the base of the fire very much the same way a blanket would. The temperature of the mist and the smothering effect are responsible for the neutralization of oxygen. Oxygen is necessary to keep the fire alive and the neutralization of oxygen discontinues the fire’s ability to thrive.

The lack of oxygen in the ashes and the cold temperature of the mist also help prevent the fire from flaring up again after it has been extinguished. this is a very important element when dealing with small fires, as flare ups are quite common and can be responsible for more damage than the original fire, as the individual has relaxed their guard because they believed the fire was out.

A fire that is caused from organic products, like paper or wood that has caught fire from something such as the fireplace, is likely to spread from a Co2 extinguisher. The most likely scenario is that the initial blast that the extinguisher puts out will throw small burning bits of material and this will cause the fire to spread. A fire that involves metals which are combustible do not react well to Co2 extinguishers, either, as the metals are likely to draw on the carbon and spread more rapidly.

Any fire that is caused by or accelerated by liquid flammables is a good choice for a Co2 extinguisher. Fires involving solvents, paints, petrol, propane, natural gas, or butane often respond very well to a Co2 extinguisher. Make sure that you hold the nozzle toward the base of the fire and sweep it side to side. Standing above the fire and blasting the contents of the extinguisher into the middle of flame will cause the fire to expand much like blowing forceful air into water. The center of the fire will respond by billowing outward, spreading more flame to all sides of the fire. Aiming at the base is crucial for fire containment.

It is vital for your personal safety to hold the Co2 extinguisher by the appropriate handle. Because the compound inside the extinguisher turns into a dry ice mist, holding the Co2 extinguisher by the top of the horn will result in a bad cold burn. The skin can not tolerate the temperature at which the mist is dispersed and holding the extinguisher improperly can cause serious bodily damage. For this same reason, it is never recommended to use a Co2 extinguisher on a person whose clothing has caught on fire.