How to Safely Hold Dry Ice
Dry ice can be dangerous if not properly handled and stored correctly. Dry ice is created by freezing carbon dioxide to a point that is less than negative 100 degrees. Due to the extremely low temperatures of dry ice, you must be very careful when handling this material.
- Properly store your dry ice until you are ready to use it. Dry ice should not be stored in a refrigerator or freezer. It is best to store this product in an insulated cooler until you are ready to use it. Remember dry ice is frozen carbon dioxide, so when it begins to melt, it will not turn into a liquid. The ice will turn back into its original form which as carbon dioxide.
- Put on safety gear when you are going to be handling dry ice. You should have on thick gloves such as rubber or leather gloves that are thick enough to protect your hands from the extremely low temperature of the material. You should also wear long sleeved shirts and pants when handling this product so that your exposed skin does not accidentally come in contact with the dry ice and cause injury to you.
- Protect your eyes if you are planning on cutting up the dry ice into smaller pieces. You do not want to take the chance of a piece of the dry ice hitting you in your eyes and causing an injury. You can safely cut up dry ice using a hammer and chisel or a saw depending on the size of the ice and your personal preference.
- Never allow children around dry ice, it could be very dangerous. If children’s skin comes into contact with dry ice, it could quickly cause injury to the child. Properly supervise the material so that children are not allowed around it for their own safety.