Fire Extinguishers 101

Choosing and Maintaining the Right Extinguishers for Your Building

Fires are a serious risk in any building, and having the right fire extinguishers can make all the difference in preventing a small fire from turning into a devastating disaster. However, not all fire extinguishers are created equal, and it's essential to choose the right type for your building and maintain them properly to ensure they are in good working order in the event of an emergency. 

In this article, we'll cover the basics of fire extinguishers, including the different types, how to choose the right one for your building, proper maintenance, and signage. 

Types of Fire Extinguishers
There are several types of fire extinguishers, each designed to tackle different types of fires. Depending on what products and services are being offered in your building you might require one or a mix of classes. 

Class A
Wood, paper, cloth, and other ordinary combustibles can be extinguished with these extinguishers.

Class B
Extinguishers like these are designed to put out fires caused by flammable liquids, such as gasoline, oil, and paint.

Class C
Electrical equipment fires, such as those caused by computers and appliances, are put out by these extinguishers.

Class D
Fires caused by flammable metals, such as magnesium and titanium, can be extinguished with these extinguishers.

Class K
These extinguishers are designed to put out fires caused by cooking oils and fats.

Choosing the Right Extinguishers for Your Building
To choose the right fire extinguishers for your building, you need to consider several factors, including the type of fire risk, the size of the building, and the number of floors. In general, it's a good idea to have at least one fire extinguisher on each floor of the building and near any potential fire hazards, such as kitchens and electrical equipment.

It's also essential to consider the size of the fire extinguisher. Larger extinguishers are better for larger fires, but they may be too heavy or bulky for some users to handle. Smaller extinguishers may be more manageable but may not be powerful enough to put out larger fires. You should also consider the type of extinguisher based on the potential fire risks in your building.

Maintenance of Fire Extinguishers
Once you have the right fire extinguishers for your building, it's essential to maintain them properly to ensure they are in good working order in the event of a fire. Some key maintenance tips include:

Regular Inspections: Fire extinguishers should be inspected monthly to ensure they are in good working order. This includes checking the pressure gauge, making sure the safety pin is intact, and ensuring that the nozzle is not clogged.
Annual Maintenance: Fire extinguishers should be serviced annually by a licensed professional to ensure they are in good working order. This includes recharging the extinguisher and replacing any damaged or worn parts.
Replacement: Fire extinguishers have a limited lifespan and should be replaced every 5-15 years, depending on the type and manufacturer. You should also replace fire extinguishers that have been used, even if only partially.
Fire Extinguisher Signage
If you can’t find a fire extinguisher it is basically useless. Fire extinguisher signage should be clear and visible. This helps ensure that occupants can easily locate and access extinguishers in the event of a fire. The NFPA requires that fire extinguisher signs be placed at eye level near each extinguisher, and that the signs include information such as the type of fire the extinguisher is meant to be used on and operating instructions.

In addition to fire extinguisher signs, buildings should also have clear exit only signs to guide occupants to safety in the event of a fire. Exit only signs should be clearly visible and illuminated, and should indicate the direction of the nearest exit. It's important to regularly inspect and maintain exit signs to ensure they are functioning properly. Any damaged or malfunctioning exit only signs should be replaced immediately.

While it may seem like a small detail, proper fire extinguisher and exit only sign placement and maintenance can make a big difference in the event of a fire. By ensuring that occupants can easily locate and access extinguishers and exits, building owners and managers can help minimize damage and injuries in the event of an emergency.

Keep Your Building Safe
Fire extinguishers are a critical component of any fire safety plan, and choosing the right type and maintaining them properly can make all the difference in preventing a small fire from turning into a catastrophic disaster. By understanding the different types of fire extinguishers and how to choose and maintain them properly, you can help keep your building and its occupants safe in the event of a fire. 

Shop fire extinguisher signage and exit only signs at Jessup Manufacturing to be proactive in your building’s fire safety.