Question 220Safety & Environmental - 1st Asst/Chief

70% to pass

During onboard training with your engineers you review the various firefighting agents available for use onboard a ship. Which of the following statements describes carbon dioxide as an extinguishing agent?

ACarbon dioxide may be applied through a fixed or semi-fixed system, or from a portable extinguisher. It is useful for inserting a compartment or for putting out small local fires.

BCarbon dioxide is produced by a special foam nozzle or by a fixed system. It is used to form a blanket over the surface of burning liquids. It is effective only with liquids which are not appreciably soluble in water.

CCarbon dioxide is a sodium or potassium bicarbonate or monosodium phosphate solution, usually applied from a semi-fixed or portable extinguisher.

DCarbon dioxide is a finely divided mist produced by either a high or low velocity fog nozzle. It is used for knocking down flames and cooling hot surfaces.

AI Explanation

The correct answer is A. Carbon dioxide is an effective extinguishing agent that can be applied through a fixed or semi-fixed system, or from a portable extinguisher. It is useful for inerting (reducing oxygen) a compartment or for putting out small local fires. This is because carbon dioxide acts by displacing oxygen, thereby depriving the fire of the necessary element for combustion. The other options are incorrect because: B describes the properties of foam, not carbon dioxide; C describes dry chemical agents, not carbon dioxide; and D describes water mist, not carbon dioxide.