An aerosol can may explode under circumstances and can cause significant injuries to anyone nearby.
Causes for an aerosol can to explode:
(1) burning the can
(2) trying to open the can with a drill or knife
(3) being struck by a bullet or high velocity projectile
(4) being placed in a microwave oven
(5) being exposed to boiling water or steam
Risk factors for a more severe explosion:
(1) fully pressurized can
(2) volatile propellant or contents
(3) close proximity to the face or body
Injuries that may occur:
(1) thermal burn
(2) lacerations caused by shrapnel from the can
(3) penetrating injuries from secondary projectiles
(4) chemical exposure
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Specialty: Emergency Medicine, Critical Care
