Is it dangerous to inhale chemicals from a fire extinguisher?

Answer 1

The dry powder in ABC fire extinguishers is non-toxic but can cause skin irritation. You can check the manufacturer's website but this info is from the Kidde user guide for their fire extinguishers and should be accurate. The chemicals used vary by model and manufacturer but if they sprayed toxic chemicals they'd never be licensed for home use. I would try to minimize your exposure using a surgical mask or at least the kind sold for yard work or painting, but unless you have respiratory problems like Asthma there shouldn't be much risk if you have no mask. If you're trying to clean up after use, use a vacuum and wet cloth to remove the residue.

Answer 2

Yes, as a general rule, fire extinguisher chemicals should not be inhaled intentionally.

In particular, CO2 extinguishers contain compress CO2 gas, which is expelled at a temperature of around -130 degrees. Inhaling that could kill you fairly quickly, as it will cause instantaneous freezing of your airway and lung tissue.

Some extinguishers contain nothing more than compressed air and water, others have compressed nitrogen or carbon dioxide. Halon and other halogenated fire extinguishers may contain potentially lethal amounts of dangerous chemicals, and may also cause long-term health effects if inhaled at excessive concentrations.

Answer 3

no. Why cant u inhale dry powder from fire extinguishers