Most people take fire prevention for granted. They assume that the fires burning in their homes are handled efficiently and none of the damage will be noticeable to anyone. But, a home is not a home without the fire that is kept inside it. Knowing how often fire extinguishers should be inspected can help you keep your family safe and prevent further damage.
How often should fire extinguishers be inspected differs from building to building, home to home, and even within a building. For example, homes in rural areas may be surrounded by wood or small shrubs that catch fire easily. These types of fires will likely continue to burn until they are put out. In urban areas, many buildings are made of paper and carpeting that are easily inflammable. Paper products such as newspapers, books, magazines, and pictures can catch fire easily.
If you have small children in your home, you should ensure that you always have a fire extinguisher close at hand. It doesn’t take long before a child’s curiosity will get the better of them and they may touch the flue or other parts of the building. As a result, there could be serious damage done that would necessitate a serious fire restoration project. If your child has discovered an electrical wire or other item within reach of the fire extinguisher, there is a chance that it can short out the fire hose and cause a fire in your home.
When considering how often fire extinguishers should be inspected, you need to consider how often a fire should be expected to occur. This is based upon the area where you live. Some areas have fire codes where once a year, fire trucks must be serviced. Others have a more lax fire safety code. If you live in an area with a lax fire code, it is important to ensure that your fire extinguishers are inspected and working efficiently.
How often you should have your fire extinguishers inspected depends on the area of the country that you live in. In California, for example, fire departments are required to regularly inspect fire extinguishers. The reason for this is tied to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). Each state in the US is assigned an NFPA representative, whose responsibility it is to oversee the compliance of fire extinguishers in each state. If your fire extinguisher is found to be in compliance, then it will need to be inspected no less than once every five years.
When your fire extinguisher is inspected, it is important to find out what the current operating specifications are. If there are no operating specifications, it is important to inquire as to whether it is safe for you to use. It is recommended that you have your fire extinguisher inspected annually. Newer technology has also been developed which could potentially reduce the need to have your fire extinguisher serviced, making it easier for you to figure out if it is necessary to service your fire extinguishers.
In many states, fire departments will offer classes for homeowners who would like to learn more about their fire extinguishers. The fire department may also have information on how often should fire extinguishers be inspected. Many times it depends on what type of fire it is, where it is located, and how large the area is. For instance, a small fire extinguisher will need less service time than a large one. Checking your fire extinguisher once a year will help ensure that it will be effective when needed.
Finally, when choosing a fire extinguisher, it is important to consider its size and design. You may need to carry a fire extinguisher in case of an emergency. The extinguisher should be easy to use properly, so look for one that matches your preferences and skill level. It is also a good idea to choose one that is lightweight, as you do not want to feel strain when trying to use it in an emergency situation. Whether you purchase a new or used fire extinguisher, you should make sure to take time and check for any signs of wear or damage, as this can prevent the extinguisher from working properly.