Fire extinguishers containing _____________ as fire extinguishing agents shall not be used on, in or near an area of cyanide storage.

Fire extinguishers containing _____________ as fire extinguishing agents shall not be used on, in or near an area of cyanide storage.

• A. Water
• B. Foam
• C. Carbon dioxide
• D. Dry chemical

Answer: (C)

Extinguishing methods around cyanide storage must avoid creating a more dangerous atmosphere. Carbon dioxide extinguishers release a gas that displaces and reduces the amount of breathable air. In a cyanide storage area, that hypoxic environment can make any cyanide exposure far more hazardous to workers and responders, since there’s less oxygen to sustain life while toxic gases may still be present or released. Because CO2 doesn’t neutralize cyanide or reliably vent or dilute the toxic gas, it’s not suitable there. Other extinguishing options, like dry chemical powders, are preferred for chemical fires, as they interrupt the fire without creating a low-oxygen environment.

Extinguishing methods around cyanide storage must avoid creating a more dangerous atmosphere. Carbon dioxide extinguishers release a gas that displaces and reduces the amount of breathable air. In a cyanide storage area, that hypoxic environment can make any cyanide exposure far more hazardous to workers and responders, since there’s less oxygen to sustain life while toxic gases may still be present or released. Because CO2 doesn’t neutralize cyanide or reliably vent or dilute the toxic gas, it’s not suitable there. Other extinguishing options, like dry chemical powders, are preferred for chemical fires, as they interrupt the fire without creating a low-oxygen environment.