Several chemicals have been invented to combat specific types of fires. These chemicals which are packaged in cylinders or canisters are our best and primary line of defense against fire emergencies. However, misuse of these chemicals can lead to damage and injury to the firefighter and other people in the vicinity. For instance, for fires involving electrical equipment, only CO2 Fire extinguishers are advised to be used for such. Using water or hydro spray, foam or wet-chemical-based fire extinguishers on electrical fires would be a catastrophe. That is why it would be for our own safety and advantage, if we know, what are the appropriate chemicals, or fire extinguishers to use on a specific fire, to prevent needless accidents and injuries.

A co2 fire fighting device do not conduct electricity, therefore there is no risk of electrocution. However, in putting out electrical fires, the current however should be turned off. Moreover, the chemical do not leave any unsightly residue like cluttered powder or tacky foam. Keep under pressure in fire extinguishers as liquid form, carbon dioxide is a non-combustible gas. Aside from effectively combating fires involving electrical equipments such as computers, television, circuit breakers and the likes, such chemical is also well-recommended for use on fires involving combustible liquid. On the other hand, carbon dioxide can also be employed on fires involving paper, cloth, wood but still, water or hydro spray-based fire extinguishers works better in this type of fire. To ensure the safety of everyone concern, Co2 should never be used on fires involving explosive metals in chemical laboratories.

So, how do co2 fire extinguishers work? It performs by substituting oxygen with CO2 and lowering the temperature of the fuel since it is much weighty than oxygen. Acting as a smothering agent, the CO2 is dispersed under great pressure. It transforms from liquid to tiny specks of dry snowflakes, which then within seconds, soak up the heat and suppresses the fire. How should you use such a device? The Manufacturer has designed these cylinders with a safety pin which you will have to pull and subsequently press the levers or push one knob to disperse the gas. You start by pointing the spurt toward the underside of the fire which is nearer you and squirt the chemical in an all-encompassing side-ward motion. You should aim for the fuel, not the flame itself, to be able to extinguish it effectively. Next, take aim at the fire's outer edges, until you have put out all the fire. Repeat the procedure, should the fire starts up again