CO2 Fire Extinguishers

Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers are specialised devices used on flammable liquids and electrical fires. Additionally, carbon dioxide fire extinguishers are filled with non-flammable gas, which displaces oxygen in the air around the fuel.

We know that uncontrollable fires are extremely frightening. Especially when it directly impacts your business or home. In addition, the risk of injuries and losing everything you’ve worked hard to achieve is very real.

We encourage you to have all the necessary tools at your disposal so that fires don’t spread quickly out of control.

The carbon dioxide fire extinguisher is designed to put out fires caused by electrical equipment. Secondly, the CO2 has the classification coverage to extinguish flammable liquids like petrol and liquefiable solids like wax and melting plastics. We refer to these as B class fires.

CO2 is used to cover the electrical-based risk. Therefore you will find these extinguishers near to fuse boards and charging stations etc.

Due to the extinguishing agent and delivery method, they are not applicable to A class fires.

Carbon dioxide fire extinguishers are red in line with the EN3 manufacturing protocol with 5% being coloured in black.

In order to extinguish an electrical fire the CO2 must be released in a focused stream. Once discharged, this stream will emit quickly with a rushing noise.

Simultaneously, CO2 extinguishant will cut off oxygen supply to the fire. As a result, the key element ‘oxygen’ is removed causing asphyxiation.

CO2 is non-toxic and leaves no residue. Since residue is not present, carbon dioxide is a safe choice for electrical fires.

Equally important, carbon dioxide extinguishers can cause sudden changes in oxygen levels. As a result please do not use these in confined spaces.

Generally, a CO2 unit is used by removing the safety pin. Then this will break the anti-tamper device. After that the plastic horn section can then be fixed in position.

Only use any extinguisher if you have had training, feel confident and are certain you are using the correct unit on the correct fire

• Remember the PASS method: Pull the pin, aim at the base of the fire, squeeze the trigger, and sweep from side to side.
• Make sure you have a clear path to the fire before you start.
• Keep your back to a safe surface, preferably an exit route while extinguishing the fire.
• Never try to extinguish a fire that’s too large or too dangerous. Leave it to the professionals!

If you’re ever faced with a fire, remember to stay calm and use the right tools for the job. With a CO2 extinguisher at your disposal, you can feel confident in your ability to put out electrical fires quickly and safely. For more information on fire extinguishers, please contact us today.