To maintain the effectiveness and safety of your fire extinguishers, it is important that your home maintenance program include the proper maintenance for your fire extinguishers.

Fire extinguishers are the first line of defense against small fires.  A small fire can grow into a big fire in just a matter of seconds.  Here are a few tips about fire extinguishers:

*  The National Fire Protection Association identifies the leading causes of house fires as cooking equipment, heating equipment, and smoking materials.  Therefore, keep fire extinguishers in your kitchen, garage, and basement.

*  Place the fire extinguisher by an exit so you can get out if the fire is not controllable by the extinguisher.

*  Never place an extinguisher near a stove.  If a fire breaks out near the stove, you will want to grab your extinguisher from someplace else.

*  Never turn your back on a fire, even if you have extinguished it, as it could flare up again.

*  Replace or refill your extinguisher after it has been used, even if only a little amount of material was released.

Teach everyone the location and how to operate the extinguisher.  To operate:  pull the pin and stand about 8 feet from the fire.  Hold the extinguisher in an upright position.  Aim the nozzle at the base of the flame and squeeze the handle.  Fan the nozzle side-to-side in a sweeping motion over the entire width of the fire.

 Maintenance Task:  Inspect fire extinguishers

Fire extinguisher inspections include:

1. Check pressure gauge to ensure a full charge.

2. Check that the nozzle isn't clogged by insects debris, etc.

3. Shake the extinguisher so that chemicals do not become packed.

4. Check that hanger is securely fastened and that everyone knows the location.

5. Make sure all fire extinguishers are accessible and not buried under other items.

Note:  Do not discharge the extinguisher to test if it is working, as this will empty the unit.

safety.  Properly maintained fire extinguishers can be used to contain a small fire thereby keeping damage to a minimum.