12 Simple Steps To Build A Fire Extinguisher From Scratch

Most people are aware of the fun volcano project kids make for school. The project generally involves creating a prehistoric scene out of dried clay or play-dough, and then filling the "volcano" with baking soda and red-colored vinegar to create a volcano science experiment. When teaching fire safety to kids, it is fun to put a spin on the same idea and create a homemade fire extinguisher! It is fitting, and fun. Here’s how:

You will need:
-An empty plastic peanut butter jar
-An empty film canister
-Baking soda
-Vinegar
-Scissors
-A bendy plastic sipping straw
-Tape

What to do:

1. Take the empty peanut butter plastic jar, and wash it thoroughly in soap and warm water, ensuring all peanut butter residue is completely gone.
2. Wash the film canister as well.
3. Dry the plastic peanut butter jar and the film canister thoroughly.
4. Fill up the film canister with baking soda.
5. Place the lid on the film canister, but do not click it shut. If possible, put it on half way; if not, just lay the lid gently on top of the canister.
6. Gently place the film canister into the empty plastic jar.
7. Fill up the plastic with vinegar, stopping just below the lid on the film canister.
8. Put the plastic jar aside.
9. Take the lid from the plastic jar and carefully punch a hole with the scissors in the center of the lid.
10. Then, slip the straw through the hole in lid. Make sure the bottom of the straw will extend about 2 to 3 inches into the jar, and not go past the lid of the film canister.
11. Next, carefully tape the straw into place. Be careful to make it airtight and leak-proof.
12. Put the lid on the peanut butter jar tightly, and tape around the edges to make sure it is airtight as well.

Now for the fun: simply shake the plastic jar, and point the straw to "extinguish" the fire. (Watch where you point it…it can be quite messy. If you are able to do this experiment outside, it is even better. The residue can easily be washed off with a garden hose or bucket of warm water)

Now for the science part: the elements of fire are oxygen, fuel, and heat. If you take away one of these aspects, there is no way a fire can last. The vinegar and baking soda produce a chemical reaction in which the foam eliminates oxygen. If this reactive substance is directed at a flame, it helps eliminate the oxygen, thus aiding in extinguishing the fire.

Please note, however, that this should not be used in place of a real fire extinguisher and that you should be aware of the proper fire safety equipment. The amount of carbon dioxide and water produced in this reaction is not sufficient to completely extinguish a fire. It does, however, make for a fun idea to teach children about the science of fire and home fire safety.