4 Common Questions About Fire Extinguishers

Fire extinguishers are essential safety equipment you need to have on a property. If you have a functional one on hand, you can quickly respond to accidental fires and prevent their spread. That helps save lives and reduces the amount of property damage significantly. Many people don’t know much about extinguishers and how they work. Here’s a look at some of the most common questions about this installation and how they can help:

Common Questions About Fire Extinguishers

1. What are the basic types of extinguishers?

Fire extinguishers come in different classes, and each one of them is used for a different purpose. Here’s a look at the types and where they can be used:

• Class A – Can be used for ordinary combustible materials like wood, paper, fabrics, etc.
• Class B – Suitable for fires caused by flammable liquids like gasoline, kerosene, paint thinners, and other chemical substance.
• Class C – This class is suitable for fires caused by energized electrical installations like switchboards, appliances, wiring, etc.
• Class D – These extinguisherscan handle fires caused by metal powders, shavings, or flakes.
• Class K – Class K is for kitchens to help prevent fires caused by cooking fats and oils.

You need to choose the type of extinguisher based on the type of fire risk. An expert can help you find the right product if you tell them where you need it installed.

2. Where should you install extinguishers?

The extinguishers should be within easy reach so people can control fire quickly. While there’s no set guideline on how far apart these safety items should be, here’s a general rule most experts recommend:

• Class A – Place the extinguisher in every 3000 sq ft of space and make sure it is less than 75 feet away from the possible fire site.
• Class B –Should be placed less than50 feet away from the possible fire site.
• Class C –Should be placed between 50 and 75 feet away from the fire hazard site.
• Class D –Place the extinguisherless than 75 feet away from the site.
• Class K –Extinguishers in the kitchen should be less than 30 feet away from the cooking station.

Place the extinguishersaccording to the type of fire they can handle. For example, Class K products should be placed in the kitchen. Class C should be placed near electrical installations. It ensures you have quick access.

3. How should you mount the extinguisher?

Proper installation is necessary to ensure your extinguisher is easy to access and ready for use. These items are essentially pressurized cans that can become unstable when dropped. Keeping them secure will help ensure that nothing jostles them until they are ready for use. Most experts recommend installing it around 3 ½ feet to 5 feet above the floor. If the unit is large and difficult to carry, make sure it is installed closer to the floor for more convenient access.

4. Do fire extinguishers need signs 

Most extinguishers are very noticeable, but it is good to install signage pointing in their direction and directly above them. Fire can flood an entire room with smoke, making it difficult for people to see where the extinguisher is. If you install a clear sign in its vicinity, people will be able to spot it quickly and use it before the fire spreads too far.

Fire Extinguisher Inspection

Ensure the extinguisher is assessed by a trained and certified technician every year to ensure it is working correctly. It is also good to inspect it every month by following the directions mentioned on the can.

All extinguishers have an expiry date or a period when they are safe to use. Keep track of these dates and replace the unit if it has expired.