Fire safety is a critical component of any home, business, or public space. Among the various measures used to prevent and combat fires, fire extinguishers play a vital role. However, simply having fire extinguishers is not enough; regular servicing and proper maintenance ensure they remain functional when needed.
The team at Hartson Fire explains the importance of fire extinguishers, their role in fire safety plans, and why regular servicing is essential.
Fire extinguishers are one of the first lines of defence against small fires. They provide individuals with a quick and effective means to suppress fires before they escalate into major incidents. Depending on the fire class, different types of extinguishers are required:
· Water Extinguishers: Effective for Class A fires (wood, paper, textiles, etc.).
· Foam Extinguishers: Suitable for Class A and B fires (flammable liquids like petrol or oil).
· CO2 Extinguishers: Ideal for electrical fires and Class B fires.
· Powder Extinguishers: Versatile but best suited for outdoor use due to visibility and breathing hazards.
· Wet Chemical Extinguishers: Designed for Class F fires (cooking oils and fats).
Equipping a building with the appropriate extinguishers ensures readiness for different fire hazards.
A well-structured fire safety plan incorporates fire extinguishers as a key component. Their role includes:
· Immediate Fire Suppression: Quick action with an extinguisher can stop a fire from spreading.
· Compliance with Fire Safety Regulations: Businesses and public buildings must meet fire safety regulations, which often require fire extinguishers at strategic locations.
· Protection of Life and Property: Properly placed extinguishers provide employees and occupants with an accessible means to combat fires, minimising damage and injuries.
· Support for Evacuation Plans: In case of an emergency, fire extinguishers can be used to create a safe passage for evacuation by controlling small fires.
Having fire extinguishers is not enough; they must be regularly inspected and maintained to ensure they function properly when needed. Servicing should include:
· Monthly Checks: Visual inspections for signs of damage, corrosion, or pressure loss.
· Annual Servicing: Conducted by a certified professional to check for operational integrity and refill or replace parts if necessary.
· Extended Servicing (Every 5 or 10 Years): Depending on the type of extinguisher, full discharge testing and refilling may be required.
Regular servicing ensures that extinguishers remain in working order, comply with legal requirements, and provide peace of mind to building occupants.
Fire extinguishers are an essential part of fire safety plans, offering immediate protection against fire hazards. However, their effectiveness relies on proper placement, awareness of their usage, and, most importantly, regular servicing. By ensuring extinguishers are well-maintained and staff are trained on their use, businesses and homeowners can enhance overall fire safety and minimise potential risks.
For professional fire extinguisher servicing and expert advice on fire safety, call the team at Hartson Fire on the number below:
