No one expects to experience a fire. Fires can break out unexpectedly in your commercial business, home, car and even your camping vehicles. Fire extinguishers are invaluable items to have in every situation. Most of us don’t think we’ll ever have to use our fire extinguisher – but we all need to know where they are located, how to use them and when to have them serviced, recharged or replaced
Expired fire extinguishers
Fire extinguishers that have gone past their expiration date should be replaced. Even when there isn’t an expiration date – it is important for you to know when yours was purchased. Most will last 5-15 years. If you are purchasing a new fire extinguisher without an expiration date – write the date of purchase on the canister.
How to check your fire extinguishers
Checking your fire extinguishers pressure gauges on a regular basis will help you determine whether or not yours are in working order and ready for use. If you don’t know if the fire extinguisher has ever been used, you may as well consider that it has been and treat it accordingly.
What to do with an old fire extinguisher
If you have an old fire extinguisher that cannot be recharged and is ready to be disposed of – you will need to release pressure in the canister. You can do this by releasing a small amount into an open area. To make sure all the pressure has been released, let the canister sit for a few days.
When your fire extinguisher needs to be replaced – you can’t simply throw the old one away. Due to the high-pressure chemicals, they need to be handled carefully. Many local fire departments will accept used fire extinguishers – or, you can take them to a hazardous waste facility.
Servicing fire extinguishers
The rule of thumb is that any time you use your fire extinguisher, you should have it recharged if it is up to current standards. A fire extinguisher professional will be able to determine if your fire extinguishers can be recharged. By taking your fire extinguishers to a fire equipment company – you will have the peace of mind that they are in good working order. This is especially true if you notice any leaking, damage or rusting of the unit. Only professionals can tell you if your fire extinguishers are in working order.
The Jay L Harman Fire Equipment team understands your firefighting needs and is ready to help
The team at Jay L Harman Fire Equipment understands that you will have many burning questions on your mind when it comes to choosing the right fire suppression system for your business. Jay L Harman is the best and one of the biggest firefighting equipment suppliers and service providers in the region, specializing in fire suppression systems, fire extinguishers, emergency lighting, fire fighting protective gear, fire hoses and more. Serving El Paso TX, Las Cruces NM and the surrounding areas, we pride ourselves on buying local and hiring local whenever possible.
Contact Jay L. Harman Fire Equipment in El Paso TX at 915-533-7021 or Las Cruces NM at 575-523-8880.. Since 1925, we have protected businesses throughout the area from the harms and hazards of fires. Every Jay L Harman technician is licensed and regulated by the Texas Department of Insurance State Fire Marshal’s Office. Each of these technicians continually receives the most up-to-date factory training and certifications by our manufacturers. Contact Jay L Harman Fire Equipment today. Let our friendly and knowledgeable staff tell you more about our fire suppression systems and help you find the ideal fire suppression system for your needs. Learn more about our full offering of fire extinguisher training, firefighting services, firefighting products, request a quote, ask a question or request additional information.