BY A plus fire & Safety

In the hands of trained personnel, portable fire extinguishers are the first line of defense against incipient fires, but in order to be useful they need to be accessible. This blog tackles the topic of portable fire extinguisher placement, both how portable fire extinguishers should be distributed and exactly where they are allowed to be placed. 

The first step is to choose the correct extinguisher based on the fire risk. Extinguishers are broken down into the following ratings: 

• Class A: Ordinary Combustibles
• Class B: Flammable Liquids
• Class C: Energized Electrical Equipment
• Class D: Combustible Metals 
• Class K: Cooking Media 

The distribution of portable fire extinguishers is a balance between having an extinguisher nearby when you need it but not being overly burdened by the cost and maintenance of having excessive extinguishers. Let us start off with what NFPA 10 Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers requires.

When NFPA 10 addresses extinguisher placement it uses the term “maximum travel distance to extinguisher”. This means that at any point inside the building you should never have to travel more than the maximum distance to reach an extinguisher. It is important to ensure the distance being measured is the actual distance a person would need to walk to get the extinguisher (as shown in Figure 1) and that occupants are not expected to walk through walls.

The maximum travel distance is often the limiting factor but for certain Class A extinguishers there is an additional floor area limitation. This maximum floor area that a single extinguisher can cover is directly related to the numerical A rating and level of hazard occupancy but reaches a maximum of 11,250 ft². It is important to know both the maximum travel distance and floor area per extinguisher since you need to follow the most restrictive of the two. The following table, along with Table 6.2.1.1 and 6.3.1.1 of NFPA 10, will help you determine the required travel distance and maximum floor area.

Introduction

Safety is paramount, and one of the most effective tools for ensuring safety in the face of a fire is a fire extinguisher. Located in Redmond, WA 98052, A Plus Fire & Safety is dedicated to providing top-notch fire extinguisher services, sales, maintenance, and hands-on training. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the importance of fire extinguishers and how to use and maintain them effectively.

1. The Role of Fire Extinguishers in Safety

A fire extinguisher is not just a tool; it’s a lifesaver. When a fire is confined to a small area, like a wastebasket, a portable fire extinguisher can put it out or contain it until professional help arrives. However, it’s essential to understand that fire extinguishers have their limitations. As fire can grow and spread rapidly, the priority is always to get out safely. Fire extinguishers are just one element of a comprehensive fire response plan, with the primary element being a safe escape.

2. Choosing the Right Fire Extinguisher

For homes, it’s advisable to select a multi-purpose extinguisher. This type can be used on various home fires. It should be large enough to tackle a small fire but not so heavy that it becomes difficult to handle. Always ensure that the fire extinguisher you choose carries the label of an independent testing laboratory. At A Plus Fire & Safety, we offer a range of fire extinguishers for sale, ensuring you get the best fit for your needs.

3. Using a Fire Extinguisher: Remember PASS

If you ever find yourself in a situation where you need to use a fire extinguisher, remember the acronym PASS:

● Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you.

● Aim low. Direct the extinguisher at the fire’s base.

● Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.

● Sweep the nozzle from side to side.

4. Fire Extinguisher Maintenance and Recharge

Just having a fire extinguisher isn’t enough. Regular maintenance ensures it’s in working order when you need it. At A Plus Fire & Safety, we provide top-tier fire extinguisher maintenance services. If your extinguisher has been used, it will need a recharge. Our fire extinguisher recharge services ensure your device is always ready to protect.

5. Hands-On Training: Why It’s Crucial

Knowing how to use a fire extinguisher is vital. Local fire departments or fire equipment distributors often offer hands-on fire extinguisher training. A Plus Fire & Safety also provides hands-on training, ensuring you and your team are well-equipped to handle emergencies.

6. Safety First: When Not to Use a Fire Extinguisher

While fire extinguishers are invaluable tools, there are times when it’s safer not to use them. If a room fills with smoke or the fire is too large, it’s time to evacuate. Remember, the primary goal is always personal safety. Additionally, the NFPA advises against training children to use fire extinguishers. Only adults familiar with their operation should use them.

Conclusion

Fire extinguishers play a crucial role in ensuring safety. Whether you’re looking for fire extinguisher sales, maintenance, recharge services, or hands-on training, A Plus Fire & Safety in Redmond, WA 98052, has got you covered. Remember, safety comes first!