Every home and business should be equipped with a fire extinguisher to help protect against small fires that might break out. To ensure your extinguisher is ready for any emergency situation, you should inspect it at least once per month. Below is a guide you should follow to determine if your tank needs to be serviced or replaced.

3 Steps for Properly Maintaining a Fire Extinguisher

1. Check Pressure

Most fire extinguishers will have a gauge on the top that reads the pressure inside. You always want the needle to lie in the green section. Otherwise, the pressure is too high or low and should be corrected by a fire protection service.

2. Look Over the Tamper Seal

A tamper seal protects the pin on the fire extinguisher from being pulled up. Without it, the pin could easily fall out and allow the device to go off. If the seal is missing, it could indicate that the extinguisher has been used and not reserviced. You should have it inspected by a professional, who will determine if it needs to be recharged and will add a new seal with the date of the service, before attempting to use it.

3. Examine the Tank for Damage

During your inspection, it is important to ensure none of the working parts have suffered any harm. Check that the can, hoses, and nozzles do not have any dents, rust, or other forms of damage. It could be unsafe to use the fire extinguisher if these signs are present.

Having a working fire extinguisher is just one part of being truly prepared for a fire. At GMW Fire Protection in Anchorage, AK, they have more than 20 years of experience in the fire alarm industry. The team installs commercial fire protection systems and trains company staff members to ensure everyone will make it out safely if an emergency does arise. To learn more about how they can help you, call them today at (907) 336-5000, or visit their website.