While conducting a extrication training class and cutting relief cuts above the front tire/fender area to prepare for a dash roll. The student made a cut above the passenger side front fender on an older vehicle and cut through the hood pressurized cylinder causing the flood to release and spray onto the helmet shield which was down and protected the students eyes. Knowing this was a possibility on the drivers side we decided to attempt to pry the cylinder off of the hood using the spreader tips. While spreading between the side of the hood and the cylinder a loud pop ensued causing the cylinder to seperate and shoot the loose end off into the parking lot located next to the fire station and we were unable to locate it and have know idea how far it traveled.
LESSONS LEARNED:
1. Always ensure your firefighters have all of their PPE on including eye protection.
2. Be very cautious working around pressurized cylinders whether on the hoods or hatchbacks of a vehicle.