A fire extinguisher has become essential equipment in the present times as it is the first line of defense against fire. It plays a crucial role in putting out the fire even before the firefighters arrive. Installing a fire extinguisher acts as a lifesaver. While a fire extinguisher is important in every building, a few industries, like petrochemical, rubber, or tire, with a higher risk of fire accidents. Fire extinguishers are an indispensable requirement in such areas; they can help stop small incidents from turning into full-blown catastrophes, However, they can fight against fire only if you have the right kind, at the right place, at the right time. So whether you are buying a fire extinguisher for your home or workplace, here are key factors to consider.
Consider the type and location of fire:-
While purchasing a fire extinguisher, consider the correct class and location of fire that you are likely to extinguish. It is necessary to place a fire extinguisher near an exit in an easily accessible place. It helps escape flames and handle propellants. You should also ensure that the extinguisher you choose to buy is certified and tested in a laboratory.
Consider the size and weight:-
Weight is something you need to be aware of when buying a fire extinguisher. Fire extinguishers vary in weight. You might think that a lightweight option is ideal because it offers more ease of use. However, a heavier fire extinguisher contains more fire retardant chemicals and provides quicker and longer protection from fire. So, it makes me feel to go with a heavier fire extinguisher. Also, consider the space of your premises before buying it.
Inspect Before You Buy:-
Fire extinguishers require regular maintenance and refills. So, while buying a fire extinguisher, it is essential to ensure that you have the latest model in the best condition. You can hire fire extinguisher inspectors to examine the pressure gauges and to ensure that the cylinder does not cause leakages.
Knowledge about rechargeable capabilities of fire extinguishers:-
Are all extinguishers rechargeable? Well, no. Out of multiple types of fire extinguishers, only a few have rechargeable capabilities to reuse them. Fire extinguisher recharge is done by a certified equipment dealer when the gauge gets low and flashing red light or sounding an alert.
Consideration about Qualities of fire extinguisher:-
It’s absolutely compulsory that your campus is fully equipped with a high-quality fire extinguisher. Not only will this protect the premises, but it will also protect life. A fire extinguisher that is easy to use, and has less maintenance cost and longevity, is an ideal fire extinguisher.
Read Reviews And Ratings:-
Ratings are printed on the fire extinguishers. For example-3-A:40-B: C is the extinguisher’s classification rating. These numbers and letters are assigned by Underwriters Laboratories to tell the extinguisher’s relative effectiveness.
The numbers will enable you to determine the size of the fire, and the letters determine the fire classification. The higher the number, the greater the effectiveness. So an extinguisher with a 4--A rating is more effective on ordinary combustibles than a 2-A one. And it is also advisable to make sure that the rating mentioned on the fire extinguisher covers all potential dangers on the location.
To sum up, fire is not uncommon, and it has life-threatening consequences. An immediate action taken for selecting a reliable fire extinguisher can help you to reduce the sustaining damage.
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