Electricity: powering the future

Having a fire extinguisher is an emergency standard you must consider. While owning one in your home may be helpful in case of a fire, it might not be of great value if not set in a good operating condition.

With the potential perils a fire could bring in your home, you must adhere to specific guidelines to have a well-conditioned fire extinguisher. Have a look at helpful tips to ensure a proper working and reliable fire extinguisher.

Regular Basic Inspection

You may consider a regular inspection of your fire extinguisher, preferably on a monthly basis even if it has not yet expired. This is a basic inspection that should be done by the user and it involves checking your device for the following:

• The inspection can be done to ensure its accessibility. Have your extinguisher in a proper spot that is visible and easily accessed in case of a fire.
• Second, you must check the tamper and safety seals to ensure that they are intact. The nozzle and other parts of the device should be hindered.
• Third, check the pressure of your extinguisher. A good fire extinguisher should have a pressure gauge to show whether the device is in good condition. Therefore, ensure that the needle of your pressure gauge indicates the manufacturer's recommended pressure. Some extinguishers may have test indicators that can be pressed to ensure pressure is of required standard.
•  Inspect for any physical damages on the device. Check for any physical dents, cracks, clogged nozzles, leakages, and corrosion that may hinder its performance.
• For rechargeable fire extinguishers, make sure to recharge them regardless of how much they were used.
• Some manufacturers may also recommend shaking chemical extinguishers that are dry to prevent its powder from setting.

You may think of documenting all the monthly checks to keep track of its performance.

Professional Inspection

Professional inspections may cover annual maintenance of your fire extinguisher. A certified professional may examine mechanical parts of your device, the entire delivery system, and the fire-fire suppression agent. After the inspection has been done, you must ensure that its certification is clearly recorded on the tag of your fire extinguisher. This should include the inspector's initials and the inspection date.

For a clear understanding, know the type of fire your fire extinguisher is designed to handle ranging from Class A to K, before making a purchase. Adhere to these two types of inspection today for a functional and reliable fire extinguisher.