A portable fire extinguisher can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or containing it until the fire department arrives, but portable extinguishers have limitations. Because fire grows and spreads so rapidly, the number one priority for residents is to get out safely. Portable fire extinguishers are effective against small fires but only if the extinguisher is properly placed, efficiently maintained, and used by trained individuals. Our professionally trained and certified Dual State Fire & Safety technicians will work to assist you with your fire protection needs.
An inspection is a "quick check" that an extinguisher is available and will operate. It is designed to give reasonable assurance that an extinguisher is fully charged and operable. This is done by seeing that it is in its designated place, that it has not been actuated or tampered with, that the visual inspection seal is intact, and that there is no obvious physical damage or condition to prevent operation. Inspections should always be conducted when extinguishers are initially placed in service and thereafter at approximately 30 day intervals. These inspections are typically performed and recorded by the business owner to meet safety code. Dual State Fire & Safety can also provide this service.
Extinguishers need to be maintained at regular intervals, not more than one year apart, or when specifically indicated by an inspection. Maintenance is a “thorough check” of the extinguisher by a certified agent. This is intended to give maximum assurance that an extinguisher will operate effectively and safely. It includes a thorough examination and any necessary repair, recharging or replacement. the check will reveal the need for periodic required testing of an extinguisher.
All extinguishers need to be recharged after use or as indicated by an inspection from one of our technicians. Recharging is the replacement or replenishment of the extinguishing agent and/or the expellant for certain extinguishers.
Extinguishers need to be tested at regular intervals as required in the Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers (NFPA-10) or more frequently when inspection or maintenance indicates a specific need. Such tests are usually required on extinguisher shells, cylinders, some cartridges and some hose assemblies. Test intervals as as determined by NFPA-10 are dependent on the type of extinguisher or D.O.T. cylinder.
Each extinguisher must have a tag or label securely attached that indicates the month and year the maintenance was performed and shall identify the person performing the service. The same record tag or label shall indicate if recharging was also performed. Fire department inspectors will check these tags during routine building inspections. Records to be kept on file will vary based on insurance and/or OSHA oversight requirements.
If you have any questions regarding your extinguishers or wish to schedule an onsite inspection, please contact us online or call 870-862-6200
