Regularly inspecting and maintaining your fire extinguisher is crucial for ensuring it's ready to use in an emergency.
Inspection checklist:
- Yearly inspection: This involves checking the label/tag, tamper seal, physical damage, pressure gauge, fullness, and shaking (if dry chemical type). *Monthly checks: Visually check for any obvious issues like damage or leaks.
CHECK THE LABEL OR TAG:
Every fire extinguisher, whether disposable or rechargeable, has a manufacturer's label or tag. This is where you'll find important information from the manufacturer, including the expiration date. After you purchase your fire extinguisher, read the label thoroughly and follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance suggestions.
INSPECT THE TAMPER SEAL:
If the tamper seal is broken or cracked, a disposable fire extinguisher should be replaced immediately. If it's rechargeable, it should be serviced by professionals. Check the locking or pull pin to ensure it rests in the correct position. If the pin is missing, the fire extinguisher needs to be inspected or serviced by a professional.
LOOK FOR PHYSICAL DAMAGE:
Physically examine your fire extinguisher for any signs of apparent damage. This may include corrosion, cracks, dents, and leakage. If you notice any of these issues, the fire extinguisher may not work correctly when needed. Stay safe by replacing it with a new model. If there aren't any signs of physical damage, check the nozzle to ensure it's not clogged by grime, dust, or bugs. If so, you can remove these items to get the nozzle back in good condition.
EXAMINE THE PRESSURE GAUGE:
Check that the pressure gauge needle indicates the fire extinguisher pressure is in the optimum operating range. Often, the correct pressure range will be designated by green markers.
ENSURE THE FIRE EXTINGUISHER IS STILL FULL:
During your monthly check, lift your fire extinguisher to determine if it's still full. If it feels light, there may have been a leak, meaning it won't have enough pressure to work correctly.
SHAKE THE FIRE EXTINGUISHER:
If you have a dry chemical fire extinguisher, it should be shaken once a month. This helps prevent the chemical dousing agent from solidifying at the bottom of the unit and preventing it from working correctly during an emergency.
WRITE THE INSPECTION DATE ON THE TAG:
Please keep track of your inspection dates by noting them on the fire extinguisher tag. Verify that the inspection tag includes the inspection date, inspector's name, and any relevant notes or actions taken.
Location:
*Store the fire extinguisher in an easily accessible location where everyone in the household knows where to find it.
When to use:
- Only use the fire extinguisher if it's a small, contained fire that you feel confident handling. *If the fire is large or spreading rapidly, evacuate the house immediately and call 9-1-1.
Professional Help:
- In the event of a fire, consider contacting a professional fire and smoke damage restoration company like ServiceMaster Restore.They can help assess the damage, clean up, restore your property, and assist with insurance claims.
Additional Tips:
- Choose the right type of fire extinguisher for your home based on the potential fire hazards. *Familiarize yourself with how to operate your fire extinguisher before an emergency. *Practice using the fire extinguisher on a small, controlled fire to gain confidence. * Remember, fire safety is paramount.If you're unsure about anything, err on the side of caution and evacuate.
By Following these guidelines, you can increase your preparedness for a potential fire emergency and protect your home and loved ones.
