What to Do After You’ve Used a Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguishers are important to have on hand in case of an emergency. But what do you do after you’ve used a fire extinguisher? Here are some important steps for proper post-fire care and procedure that everyone should be aware of – because knowing how to use a fire extinguisher properly is only half of the equation when learning about fire safety!

Check the Extinguisher for Damage

After using a fire extinguisher, it is important to check for damage. So, make sure you look for any cracks or anything else that looks off. You should also examine the hose and nozzle of the unit to see if there’s a clog or any kind of blockage.

Once you have checked for any physical damage, it is equally important to pay attention to any lingering embers that may still be burning after using the fire extinguisher. Extinguishing any remaining sparks can help prevent another fire from starting and ensure everyone remains safe from harm.

Wipe It Off With a Cloth

Fire extinguishers are invaluable in case of an unexpected fire, so it’s important to maintain them to ensure they are ready to use in an emergency. 

As part of a routine maintenance regimen, you should check the extinguisher’s condition and ensure no water or foam is left on the outside. If an extinguisher has liquids on it, wipe them off with a cloth as soon as possible. This can help preserve the life of your fire extinguisher and ensure it is always ready for use.

Recharge or Replace

Keeping your fire extinguisher in working order is essential to ensuring the safety of your home or business. It is important to remember that fire extinguishers do expire, and therefore must be routinely inspected and replaced. It must include a comprehensive evaluation, refill or recharge as necessary.

In addition, if the fire extinguisher has been used, is more than six years old, or doesn’t meet requirements for hydrostatic testing, it is time to replace it with an up-to-date model. Paying close attention to your fire extinguisher’s maintenance schedule can ensure you always feel secure in a fire emergency.

Store the Fire Extinguisher in a Safe Place

Taking care of your fire extinguisher is a must, given the security risks and potential fire hazards that surround many homes and businesses. Placing it in a safe place where external forces or environmental conditions won’t easily damage it and is secure enough to prevent tampering is the best way to ensure that it will function when needed. 

Moreover, familiarity with the extinguisher’s location in an emergency is paramount, so ensure that you and anyone else who may need to access the extinguisher know exactly where it is. In short, store your fire extinguisher thoughtfully and maintain it regularly.

Conclusion

Always remember to stay safe and call the proper authorities if you cannot safely extinguish a fire. We hope this blog was informative and taught you everything you need to know about what to do after using a fire extinguisher!

Want to make sure your fire extinguishers are in good working order? We’d be happy to help! Click here to get in touch with Fire-Alert today.