5 Things Businesses Should Know About Fire Extinguishers

Extinguishers are of Multiple Types

Fire extinguishers can be of several types depending on various factors. Each of these types has different features and suitability. Metal fire, grease, or electrical, all of these fire types have to be dealt with differently. ABC extinguishers are for electrical fires and flammable liquids, whereas the CO2 extinguishers are for lab environments.

Therefore, you have to figure out which type is the right one for your commercial building.

Fire Extinguisher Requires Monthly Inspections

After installing the fire extinguisher, you have to make sure it gets properly maintained regularly. While you have to conduct a visual inspection every month, they should be inspected yearly by a licensed fire extinguisher service from where the building is located.

Fire Extinguishers Must be Recharged After Every Use

Once you use a fire extinguisher, the extinguishing agent will decrease. If your fire extinguisher is rechargeable, make sure to refill the canister after each application. So you can use it for the next emergency.

Fire Extinguishers Don't Last Forever

Even if you never had to use the fire extinguisher, keep in mind that nothing lasts forever. The fire extinguisher is not an exception either. Replace the disposable extinguisher every 12 years. You can use the rechargeable ones for longer, but only if they pass the hydro test.

You Must Dispose of Fire Extinguishers Properly

After it completely wears off, you can’t just dump a fire extinguisher and buy another one. You have to dispose of it properly. You can drop them at your local waste disposal unit, or the local firehouse.