A CO2 extinguisher is an important weapon in the home protection arsenal. Unlike many dry chemical extinguishers, CO2 extinguishers do not coat all surfaces with messy residue. However, other extinguishers may be better suited depending on the situation. You need to understand the kind of fire that is occurring. There are four major fire classifications: 1) ordinary paper, wood or plastic (Class A); 2) flammable or combustible liquids (B); 3) electrical wiring and electronic equipment (C); and 4) combustible metals (D).

Extinguishers are identified according to the suitability for different fires. CO2 extinguishers are best used for Class B and C fires. Although usable on a Class A fire, it is less likely to reduce heat or coat the fuel source enough to stop re-ignition. They should never be used in Class D fires; they actually may exacerbate the chemical reaction involved in a combustible metal fire.

All extinguishers operate by delivering a pressurized agent to help starve the flames of one of the fire's essential ingredients: heat, oxygen, or basic fuel. The carbon dioxide delivered by a CO2 extinguisher is a non-flammable gas and works by starving the fire of oxygen.

The CO2 extinguisher contains carbon dioxide in liquid form. The extinguisher must be highly pressurized for that state to be maintained; therefore, the carbon dioxide is also extremely cold. When in use, the extinguisher emits a mist of CO2, but occasionally also sends out a few pieces of dry ice. The nozzle of the extinguisher should never touch bare skin because freeze burns may occur.

The force and noise associated with discharging a CO2 extinguisher is quite high due to the elevated level of pressure inside the canister. Operating it requires a strong grip on the canister while making sure that the nozzle is pointed from the body. Some delicate electronic equipment may be damaged by the force of the discharge. Other clean agent extinguishers that also leave minimal residue might be better for those situations. In kitchen-related fires and in electrical and appliance fires, CO2 extinguishers are a great choice.

It is important to keep your head when facing a fire situation. Assess its extent and your ability to face it. You are not required to fight it. Leave if needed and sound an alarm; then call in fire professionals. If the fire is small enough, you may want to employ a fire extinguisher. Unlock the triggering device and discharge the agent at the base of the flames. Make sure your exit path is clear and do not walk toward the fire over an area you have just extinguished. Those areas may re-ignite.

Most fire extinguishers only discharge for approximately 10 seconds before they are depleted. A large fire will not be contained and extinguished with a normal residential fire extinguisher. However, if an extinguisher is used, make sure that it is recharged. Another incident could occur at any time and you do not want to be left unprepared.

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Article Submitted By: Matthew Kerridge
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