In a pinch, oven mitts or winter gloves are suitable for handling dry ice for a few seconds at a time. Nitrile exam gloves will not provide you any significant protection against dry ice. [2] X Research source Use tongs to handle dry ice when possible.

For instance, leave dry ice in a large room with open windows or on a secure balcony. If possible, choose an area that you do not spend a lot of time in to avoid exposure to carbon dioxide gas. Never place dry ice directly on a tiled or solid surface countertop as the extreme cold will damage it.

As a general rule, it takes about 24 hours for 10 pounds (160 oz) of dry ice to fully sublimate. Blocks of dry ice will take longer to sublimate than pellets or flakes.

Make sure animals can’t get to dry ice when you get rid of it, as they may experience contact burns from it.

An explosion could result in personal injury or property damage.

Containers that are not specified for dry ice storage will not have the right insulation or ventilation to store dry ice safely. Styrofoam is a suitable storage material for dry ice since it is insulated but not airtight.

Avoid transporting dry ice over long distances.