Short answerDry ice is frozen carbon dioxide at −109.3°F (−78.5°C). Handle it with insulated gloves, keep it ventilated, never seal it in an airtight container, and never ride it in a car cabin.
The three real hazards
- Frostbite: skin contact can cause severe frostbite quickly.
- Too much carbon dioxide: as it turns to gas, it can push oxygen out of a closed room or car, causing trouble breathing or worse.
- Pressure: in a sealed container the gas builds up until the container bursts.
Handling
- Never touch it bare-handed. Use loose, insulated gloves or tongs. Thin exam gloves are not enough.
- Wear eye protection when breaking up blocks.
- Never put it in your mouth or in a drink someone could swallow.
Storing
- Use a foam or insulated cooler that is not airtight.
- Never use a sealed plastic bottle, glass jar or a cooler latched airtight.
- Keep it in a ventilated space, not a small closet, walk-in cooler or basement room.
- Keep it away from kids and pets.
Driving it home
University of Utah safety guidance says never to place dry ice in the cab of a vehicle. Put the cooler in the trunk or truck bed. If it has to ride inside, keep windows open and get it out as soon as you arrive.
Getting rid of leftovers
Leave it in a ventilated spot at room temperature and let it turn to gas. Never put it in a trash can, sink or toilet: the cold can damage plumbing.
If a container is bulging
Do not try to open it. Move people away from it and call 911.
Sources (checked October 27, 2026)
General guidance, not professional safety advice. Follow your supplier’s and carrier’s instructions.