An explosion is a rapid combustion that turns a material into a gas almost instantaneously. In an ideal detonation, only nontoxic gases are produced (N2, H2O, CO2). In certain parts of the country, various atmospheric and geologic factors may cause some blasts to generate CO (carbon monoxide) and/or NOx (oxides of nitrogen). Monitoring methods include gas detectors or visually tracking clouds that may contain gases. If gases are detected, local emergency response personnel should be notified.
