Question 219Safety & Environmental - 1st Asst/Chief

The correct answer is D) prolonged exposure to high concentrations of CO2 gas causes suffocation. Carbon dioxide (CO2) is an effective fire extinguishing agent because it displaces oxygen, thereby depriving the fire of the necessary element to continue burning. However, in an enclosed space, the high concentration of CO2 can lead to suffocation, as it replaces the oxygen that humans need to breathe. Prolonged exposure to elevated CO2 levels in an enclosed area can result in unconsciousness and even death due to asphyxiation. The other options are incorrect because: A) CO2 is heavier than air and will not dissipate rapidly, B) the 'snow' discharge is not toxic, and C) the suffocation hazard is the primary concern, not the dissipation rate.