Which extinguishing agent is not suitable around cyanide storage areas?

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

Answer: (C)

Extinguishing media around cyanide storage areas must avoid those that can create or worsen a dangerous atmospheric condition. Carbon dioxide is not suitable because its main action is to displace oxygen and create an oxygen-deficient environment. In a cyanide storage area, this poses a severe risk: workers can be overcome by asphyxiation, and toxic cyanide gases may already be present or released during an incident, making it even harder to detect and respond safely. Water, foam, and dry chemical are generally appropriate because they help cool, blanket, or interrupt the fire without primarily reducing the available oxygen in the space.