Whether you are a commercial property owner or a homeowner fire extinguishers are essential fire safety equipment to have on your property. Most often, having fire extinguishers is not just encouraged, but required by local fire codes and standards. Purchasing and distributing the appropriate number of fire extinguishers is only half of what is necessary to protect yourself and your property from fire. In order for fire extinguishers to provide you with peace of mind and perform as intended, you must also maintain them with proper fire extinguisher services.

Fire extinguishers require routine maintenance and service since different parts of the fire extinguisher need to be checked at different intervals. Every month, a trained individual should check those extinguishers to be sure they are accessible, in the correct location, have clear and legible labels, have unaltered seals, and are not damaged in any way. These manual, in-house, monthly inspections should be kept on record and include the initials of the individual that has completed the inspection. Every year, your fire extinguisher service should include an annual inspection by a licensed professional. Scheduling long term fire extinguisher service depends on the type of fire extinguisher. Carbon dioxide and water-based extinguishers need a hydrostatic test every 5 years. Stored pressure extinguishers need service every 6 years. Every 12 years, a hydrostatic test is required for stored-pressure and cartridge operated extinguishers. Check with a professional fire extinguisher services provider for more details on your long term fire extinguisher service requirements.

Although monthly inspections can be done in-house, it is prudent to have someone who is familiar with fire extinguishers perform these checks. Annual fire extinguisher service needs to be completed by a licensed professional like ACT Safety Services. Companies like ACT have certified technicians who can ensure fire extinguishers are inspected and working correctly. Calling in a professional to handle these inspections can help you feel safe and secure knowing experts in fire extinguisher service has checked your devices.

Without the proper fire extinguisher services, you are not only subjecting yourself to possible fines but also putting your safety at risk. Fire extinguisher service is only one fire protection service that may help protect yourself and your property.