CO₂ Fire Extinguisher

How to choose and look after a CO₂ extinguisher

Where to use it

CO₂ extinguishers are ideal for electrical panels, server and UPS rooms, DG rooms, labs and kitchens with electrical equipment, and for Class B (flammable liquid) fires. The gas leaves no residue, so there is nothing to clean up afterwards.

Safe use

CO₂ works by displacing oxygen, so avoid using large quantities in small, closed rooms where people remain, and ventilate the area afterwards. The discharge horn becomes extremely cold — hold the extinguisher by its handle, never by the horn. It is not the best choice for deep-seated Class A fires such as smouldering paper or cloth.

Care, refilling and servicing

CO₂ is stored as a liquid under high pressure, so its condition is checked by weighing the cylinder rather than by a pressure gauge. It must be recharged if the weight has dropped beyond the permitted limit, refilled after any use, and pressure-tested as per IS 2190. FIRENET weighs, refills and services CO₂ extinguishers.