Fires can be hazardous, especially if they get out of control. You can minimise the financial losses and risks to human beings by using a fire extinguisher before the fire spreads. Prompt fire-fighting also helps prevent environmental disasters such as bush fires. This piece discusses several tips that ensure fire extinguishers' safe and effective use. 

Location  

Different issues dictate the places where you keep a fire extinguisher. For example, the fire extinguisher must be within reach. Your ergonomic considerations ensure that a person does not take long to get the fire extinguishers. You may put the fire extinguisher in drawers to protect them from crowded areas but ensure they are accessible. 

In addition, you must consider signage when installing fire extinguishers, especially when you keep them in cabinets. Signage helps direct people during an emergency and ensures they locate fire-fighting equipment within the shortest time possible. If you are not sure where to keep your fire extinguishers, consult the vendors or fire fighting department or run fire drills to be sure. 

Portable Options

Some scenarios may require portable fire extinguishers. For example, you need a fire extinguisher for off-site welding activities. The equipment helps you reduce the risk of starting fires in an uncontrolled environment. Your factory might have sprinklers, but your customers might not have such systems. Therefore, ensure you have an off-site fire-fighting kit assembled.

You may also purchase a fire extinguisher for your vehicle. The law in some areas makes it mandatory for cars to have fire extinguishers, especially public service vehicles. This equipment makes it easy to manage small fires that result from accidents or malfunctioning vehicle fires. Again, ensure the fire extinguisher is within reach of the driver or passengers. 

Maintenance

You must recharge a fire extinguisher if you use it several times. The recharge process ensures that the fire extinguisher has enough suppressant liquid and pressure to suppress another fire. Certified distributors have the equipment to recharge the fire extinguishers, ensuring you have enough to uphold your safety standards. The recharge process also helps you avoid problems with fire inspectors. 

Another maintenance tip involves the repair of damaged fire extinguishers. Constantly check the condition of the container and check for rust or corrosion. In addition, check the manufacture date to confirm that the fire extinguisher is not expired. You must also ensure that the tamper indicator is in place and the nozzle has no obstructions. 

Install your fire extinguishers in the appropriate location. You may also consider several portable options depending on your application. Finally, ensure that your fire extinguishers are in excellent condition. 

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