Dangers: CO2 extinguishers should not be used on fires involving solid materials , such as paper, wood and fabric, and also are not suitable for use on flammable gases. How it works: The CO2 works by cutting off the fire’s oxygen supply. This then smothers it and, as it does so, extinguishes the flames.
When should you not use a CO2 fire extinguisher?
Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers, when used in the right circumstances can save lives. However, it would be dangerous to use a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher when dealing with flammable gases, cooking oils and fats , or in a confined space.
What can you use a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher on?
CO2 fire extinguishers are designed for Class B liquid fires & safe to use on live electrical. Class B fires that can be extinguished with a carbon dioxide extinguisher include flammable liquids and gases, solvents, oil, greases (excluding cooking oils/greases), tars, oil-based paints and lacquers.
What fire extinguisher should not be used?
Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers are the worst type of equipment for fighting fires in confined spaces. The sudden increase in CO2 levels, combined with the consequential displacement of oxygen will make it harder to breathe, leading to asphyxiation for the user as well as others trapped in the area.
Where should you not use a CO2 fire extinguisher?
Do not use CO2 extinguishers in small rooms as CO2 gas is poisonous at only 4% concentration and can kill at just 8%. Only tackle small fires with an extinguisher. If the fire has taken hold do not fight the fire but evacuate immediately and warn others of the fire, then call the fire and rescue service.
Can CO2 put out fire?
Carbon dioxide extinguishes work by displacing oxygen, or taking away the oxygen element of the fire triangle. ... CO2s may be ineffective at extinguishing Class A fires because they may not be able to displace enough oxygen to successfully put the fire out.
How do I know if my fire extinguisher is CO2?
Co2 Fire Extinguishers are identified by a black colour band . Other types of fire extinguishers are Water (red), Wet Chemical (yellow band), Foam (blue band), Dry Chemical Powder (white band), Carbon Dioxide (black band) and Vaporising Liquid (yellow).
What is the difference between ABC and CO2 fire extinguisher?
CO2s are designed for Class B and C (flammable liquid and electrical) fires only. Carbon Dioxide is a non-flammable gas that extinguishes fire by displacing oxygen, or taking away the oxygen element of the fire triangle.
Are CO2 fire extinguishers toxic?
However, toxicity can occur if a CO 2 extinguisher is used in a small, poorly ventilated area . Inhalation of concentrated CO 2 causes the same symptoms as not having enough oxygen, including difficulty breathing, dizziness, and loss of consciousness. Anyone exposed to concentrated CO 2 should seek fresh air immediately.
Can you use fire extinguisher on electrical fire?
Fire extinguishers with a Class C rating are suitable for fires in “live” electrical equipment. Both monoammonium phosphate and sodium bicarbonate are commonly used to fight this type of fire because of their nonconductive properties.
What type of fire extinguisher is best for home use?
It’s important that your fire extinguishers be UL-approved. Every single one of the experts we spoke with recommended an extinguisher with an ABC rating . Simply put, ABC extinguishers are the standard for home use.
Which extinguisher is most suitable for oil fires?
Wet Chemical fire extinguishers are the most effective against Class F fires (cooking oils and fats) e.g fats, grease and oil.
How long does a CO2 fire extinguisher last?
CO 2 fire extinguishers should be replaced every 10 years .
When is it required for CO2 fire extinguisher to be recharged?
Every five years , all Powder, Foam, Water and Wet Chemical extinguishers should be discharged tested and refilled (extended service). This means that a competent person will empty and refill the extinguisher.
What is the first thing you need to do before you use a fire extinguisher?
Call for Help . When a fire springs up, calling for help is the first step that you should take to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you. Even if you think that you can handle the fire on your own, it is important to call 911.
What are the 3 methods of extinguishing a fire?
All fires can be extinguished by cooling, smothering, starving or by interrupting the combustion process to extinguish the fire. One of the most common methods of extinguishing a fire is by cooling with water.
