Check the pressure gauge. Examine where the gauge needle is. A needle within the green zone is good. A needle in the left red zone means that the fire extinguisher is undercharged and warrants a recharge, while a needle in the right red zone signals a danger of being overcharged. Pressure Gauge.
Ensure the fire extinguisher has a valid maintenance tag and check the date of manufacture, last hydrotest, and six-year maintenance date. Check the pressure gauge to ensure the extinguisher is charged and ready for immediate use. Also, at this time, check the condition of the indicator and its compatibility with the extinguisher.
Choosing and Using Fire Extinguishers
When operating a fire extinguisher, tell residents to remember the word PASS: Pull the pin. Hold the extinguisher with the nozzle pointing away from you and release the locking mechanism. Aim low. Point the extinguisher at the base of the fire. Squeeze the lever slowly and evenly.
Check the fire extinguisher cylinder for any dents, punctures, corrosion or any type of physical damage. If there any type of damage to the cylinder, the fire extinguisher should be replaced. Operating a fire extinguisher that is damaged or corroded can be extremely dangerous and possibly explode since the contents are under pressure.
People Also Ask how to know if a fire extinguisher has been used
How to check if a fire extinguisher is working properly?
Firstly, walk up to the fire extinguisher to check its visibility and accessibility: Identify if a fire extinguisher is present in the area and take note if it is easily visible. It should not be blocked by any equipment or other objects that would make it difficult to be accessed during an emergency.
What do the numbers on a fire extinguisher mean?
A needle in the left red zone means that the fire extinguisher is undercharged and warrants a recharge, while a needle in the right red zone signals a danger of being overcharged. Note if an inspection tag is available. The tag should indicate that a fire extinguisher is regularly inspected.
Can all fire extinguishers extinguish all class of fires?
However, it’s essential to keep in mind that not all fire extinguishers can extinguish all Class of fires, and some may even cause more damage and harm to the operator than help extinguish the flames.
Why is it important to use the proper type of extinguisher?
It is important to use the proper type extinguisher for your work environment. How a fire should be extinguished depends on the type of fuel that is feeding the fire. A fire needs three things in order to burn: oxygen, heat, fuel. Listed below are the most common types of extinguishers and what fuel they are designed to extinguish. There are some
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How to Inspect a Fire Extinguisher Video Answer
Reference:
https://www.usfa.fema.gov/
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fire_extinguisher