{Dry Ice} Safety

Dry ice is frozen carbon dioxide. Unlike most solids, it does not melt into a liquid, but instead changes directly into a gas. This process is called sublimation. The temperature of dry ice is around minus 109° F / -78C ! {Techni Ice can also be frozen to minus 80C in blast freezer}

Dry Ice Safety Rules:

1) Children: Never use dry ice without adult supervision.

2) Storage: Never store dry ice in an airtight container. As the dry ice melts, the gas will build up in the container until it bursts. Sharp pieces of container will go flying all over the place. Make sure your container is ventilated!!! The best place to store dry ice is in a styrofoam chest with a loose fitting lid.

3) Touch: Do not touch dry ice with your skin! Since the temperature of dry ice is so cold, it can cause severe frostbite.

4) Never eat or swallow dry ice! Again, the temperature of dry ice is very, very cold. If you swallow dry ice, seek medical help immediately.

5) Never lay down in, or place small children or pets in homemade clouds of dry ice. People and pets could suffocate if they breathe in too much gas.

6) Never place dry ice in an unventilated room or car. If you are traveling with dry ice in the car, leave a window open.

7) Always wear safety goggles when doing experiments with dry ice.

8) Do not place dry ice directly on countertops. The cold temperature could cause the surface to crack.

9) Do not store dry ice in your freezer. It will cause your freezer to become too cold and your freezer may shut off.

Disposing of Dry Ice:

To dispose of dry ice, place in a well ventilated container and take it outside where small children and pets cannot reach it. Simply let it sublimate away!

Information found via NOAA, Nevada.