Why Choose a Carbon Dioxide Fire Extinguisher

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).

Different extinguishers each work best on different classifications of fires. Class B and C fires respond well to CO2 extinguishers. Class A fires, fueled by paper, plastic or wood, are less well-matched with CO2. Although it may initially extinguish the flames, once the CO2 dissipates, the fire may re-ignite. Fires involving combustible metals (Class D) are never treated with CO2; the chemical reactions present in that type of fire actually may be accelerated.

Fire extinguishers are manufactured to hold their fire fighting agent in a pressurized state. The point of discharging the agent is to kill the flames by taking away one of the main ingredients of the fire’s existence: heat, fuel, or oxygen. CO2 extinguishers work on suffocating the flames by replacing the oxygen with carbon dioxide, a non-flammable gas.

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.

Discharging a CO2 extinguisher is loud and the mist is very forceful due to the extreme pressure inside the cylinder. When using it, the nozzle should be at a direct angle away from the body. You also need to have a very firm hold on the extinguisher. The level of force generated by the discharge may actually be damaging to some computers or delicate electronic equipment. In those situations, other clean agent fire extinguishers should be used, if possible. General kitchen and appliance fires are well served by a CO2 extinguisher, however. Restaurants and chemical labs often use commercial CO2 extinguishers.

When faced with a fire, think clearly. First and foremost, you are not required to fight a fire. If you are unsure, get out of the area, alert as many others as possible and call the fire department. If you decide to fight the fire, let others know what you are doing. Grab the extinguisher, pull the tab or pin to release the trigger and spray the base of the fire. Stay several feet away; do not stand on previously ignited material for it may re-ignite, and do not let the fire get between you and your exit.

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.

Matthew Kerridge is an expert in home security. If you want further information about types of co2 extinguisher or are searching to buy a co2 extinguisher please visit http://www.adt.co.uk