How should burning carbon be handled?

• A. With a fire blanket
• B. By covering it with a fine mist of spray from a hose or chemical foam extinguisher
• C. With water directly
• D. By removing it from the area immediately

Answer: (B)

Burning carbon, such as that found in certain types of materials or during combustion processes, should be treated with caution and specific methods to effectively extinguish the flames. The recommended approach, which is reflected in the correct answer, involves covering the burning carbon with a fine mist spray from a hose or utilizing a chemical foam extinguisher.

This method is effective because it helps to cool the material and inhibit the supply of oxygen, which is essential for combustion. The fine mist prevents the burning particles from becoming airborne, reducing the risk of spreading the fire. In addition, the chemical foam can smother the fire and prevent re-ignition by forming a barrier between the burning material and the atmosphere.

Using water directly on burning carbon can sometimes lead to a dangerous reaction, especially if the carbon is in a powdered form or combined with other substances that could react adversely. Water can also scatter burning particles, potentially spreading the fire, which makes it an ineffective method for handling this type of situation.

A fire blanket, while useful for certain types of fires, is less practical for extensive burning of carbon, where direct suppression is needed. Removing the burning material from the area can also exacerbate the problem, risking spreading flames or causing injury, making direct intervention