Know where to place a Fire Extinguisher securely

Fires are unpredictable, be it small or major, it can cause you a lot physically or financially. However, the first thing that can save you from any fire hazard is a fire extinguisher. As it controls fire at the initial stage, it helps prevent the risk of huge fire disasters. Therefore, extinguishers are considered the front-line defense mechanism that should be placed near the accessible area. There is no use of fire extinguishers if you cannot access the extinguisher immediately at the time of urgent requirement.

Usually, fire spreads fast, whether due to wood, chemical, short circuit, or the burning & bursting of any household object. At times, it does not even allow you enough time to call a firefighter. So, it becomes essential to place your fire extinguisher bracket correctly and near an asses sable area. But most people are unaware of the right places to mount their extinguisher effectively. However, if you are one of them, don’t worry; keep reading further.

Ideal places to mount fire extinguisher

Fire extinguishers are classified into five classes – Class: A, B, C, D, or K, designed as per the severity of the fire. Therefore, fire extinguishers brackets with different classes or ratings must be mounted in different places as per their requirements. Where you can securely reach and utilize the extinguisher immediately.

Class – A

You can place a class – A extinguisher around ordinary places that contains flammable materials, including - offices, assembly halls, or classrooms.

Cause – Cloth, paper, wood, plastic, rubber, etc.

Spacing – Mount extinguisher at every 3,000 sq. feet.

Maximum travel distance – 75 ft.

Class – B

Mount class – B extinguishers at workshops, garages, storage areas, service, or warehouses. Also, around manufacturing areas that contain fire-prone liquids or gasses.

Cause – Fire-prone liquids and gasses (natural gas, gasoline, etc.)

Maximum travel distance – 50 ft.

Class – C

C category extinguisher brackets are mounted mostly around energized electrical equipment.

Cause – Due to electrical short circuit (electrical cables & machinery)

Maximum travel distance – Usually based on Class A & B hazard

Class – D

D class extinguishers are placed near areas that generate shavings, metal powder, or flakes every 1-2 weeks.

Cause – Fire prone metals

Spacing – Should be mounted 75 ft. away from the hazard

Class – K

You can mount K-class fire extinguishers in kitchens or locations where combustible cooking oil or fats exist.

Cause – Fire caused due to cooking oils or fats

Maximum travel distance – 30 ft.

Conclusion

Hopefully, our article was helpful enough to guide you regarding different extinguisher brackets and where you should mount them as per their classification. However, we recommend you consider the guide given above before placing your extinguisher.