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Many households have invested in a CO2 extinguisher. A “clean agent” extinguisher, it does not leave behind a residue of extinguishing material. Not all fires respond to CO2, so understanding the fire classifications is paramount. Fires break into four major categories, including Class A for ordinary wood/paper/plastic; Class B for flammable or combustible liquids, Class C for electrical equipment or wiring, and Class D for combustible metals.

Fire extinguishers are labeled with fire classifications so you can determine their best use. The best uses for a CO2 extinguisher are Class B and C fires. CO2 also can be a useful agent to help retard Class A fires, but re-ignition is more likely to occur. Class D fires involving combustible metals are not compatible with CO2 extinguishers; accelerated chemical reactions and a larger fire may result.

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.

Carbon dioxide is placed under enormous pressure inside a CO2 extinguisher so that it can attain liquid state. When the extinguisher is discharged, the CO2 comes out in a mist form. The high pressurization makes the carbon dioxide very cold; in fact sometimes pieces of dry ice are emitted during use. It is important to never touch the nozzle when the CO2 is spraying because a freeze burn can result.

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.

When using an extinguisher, be careful about where and when it is discharged. Most extinguishers are spent very quickly. Make the time count. If you are facing a raging fire, the worth of a residential extinguisher is not too high. Equally important: remember to get the canister recharged or replaced after it has been used so that you are prepared for any future situations.

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