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Posted on: 19 September 2022

Having a fire extinguisher in your home is vital to be prepared for a fire. Simply owning a fire extinguisher, however, is not enough. You also need to know how to care for and use it properly. This guide will teach you everything you need to know about fire extinguisher care and maintenance.

Why is it important to have a fire extinguisher?

Fire extinguishers are an important part of being prepared for a fire. They can help you put out a small fire before it gets out of control, and they can also help you clear a path to evacuate safely if a fire is too large to extinguish.

What are the four types of fire extinguishers? 

There are four main types of fire extinguishers, including:

• Water. This type of extinguisher is best for Class A fires, which are common fires that involve wood, paper, or fabric.
• Foam. Foam extinguishers are best for Class B fires, which are fires that involve flammable liquids, such as gasoline or oil.
• CO2. This type of fire extinguisher is best for Class C electrical fires.
• Dry chemical. Dry chemical extinguishers work on Class A, B, and C fires. Often called ABC fire extinguishers, dry chemical fire extinguishers are the most versatile.

What are good fire extinguisher maintenance steps?

Like the rest of your home, your fire extinguishers need regular maintenance. Here are a few key fire extinguisher maintenance steps:

1. Check the pressure gauge regularly to ensure the extinguisher is properly charged.

2. Inspect the fire extinguisher for any physical damage, such as leaks, cracks, or dents.

3. Make sure the fire extinguisher is not blocked by anything and is kept in its designated location so it is easy to find and grab in the event of a fire.

By following these simple steps regularly, you can ensure that you are prepared in the event of a fire.

Do you need a fire extinguisher service?

Most homeowners do not realize that fire extinguishers lose their effectiveness over time due to pressure loss, clogging, and damage. The National Fire Protection Association states that you should have a fire extinguisher service "anywhere from 1-6 year intervals depending on the type of extinguisher." 

When you have a fire extinguisher service, a technician will come to your home and inspect the extinguisher. They will check the pressure, look for any physical damage, and clean or replace the extinguisher if necessary.

Having a fire extinguisher in your home is useless if you have the wrong kind, do not know how to use it, or have let it expire. Regularly scheduled maintenance and fire extinguisher service can ensure that you are prepared in the event of a fire.

Contact a fire extinguisher service to learn more.