8. The hose and horn assembly of a carbon dioxide fire extinguisher is designed to conduct the static electrical charge generated by the extinguishing agent during operation of the unit.
a. True
b. False
answer: When carbon dioxide (CO2) converts from its liquid state in a fire extinguisher, to its vapor state in the atmosphere, static electricity is created. The hose and horn assembly is designed to conduct and dissipate this static charge to prevent harm to the operator and the generation of a static electrical spark. The spark will take place if the extinguisher's grounding state is altered during operation; that is, if you place the extinguisher on the ground while operating the unit or if you come into contact with another grounded object while operating the unit. The preferred way to operate this extinguisher is to drag the extinguisher into and out of the fire area while discharging the unit; thus the extinguisher remains grounded at all time.