What Is a Tagged Fire Extinguisher?

What exactly does it mean for a fire extinguisher to be “tagged”? This blog post will discuss tagged fire extinguishers and why they’re so important in working environments.

Why Are Fire Extinguishers Tagged?

Fire extinguishers are essential safety equipment that can save lives, property, and valuable resources in a fire emergency. It is therefore critical for fire extinguishers to be properly maintained and tagged with an up-to-date inspection tag. 

This tag indicates when the next scheduled maintenance check or recharge should occur, so it’s important to ensure that the tag is visible and not covered or obstructed. 

What Sort of Information Is Recorded on a Tag?

A fire extinguisher tag will typically record several pieces of important information. This includes:

  • The date that the fire extinguisher was last serviced
  • The type and size of the extinguisher, a list of any defects or problems with it
  • Contact information for an authorized distributor or service provider who can provide repair and maintenance services for the fire extinguisher
  • A list of approved uses for the specific fire extinguisher type
  • Any special instructions or warnings regarding its use
  • An expiration date, which indicates when the fire extinguisher should be re-tested and serviced

It is important to note that failure to retest and service your fire extinguisher may lead to serious injury or death, as it may not be ready-to-go in an emergency.

How Long Do Fire Extinguisher Tags Last?

Fire extinguisher tags are designed to be durable and long-lasting. However, the lifespans of these tags depend on what type of material is used. 

Most fire extinguisher tags are made from vinyl resistant to water, sunlight, and other environmental factors. This type of tag lasts anywhere from 5 to 10 years with proper use. 

Tags made from metal are also available; these typically last even longer than those made from vinyl. These tags can often have a lifespan of up to 15 years or more if taken care of properly. 

Both types of tags should be inspected periodically for any signs of damage that could lessen the effectiveness of the tag. It’s important to remember that fire extinguisher tags are not designed to be permanent and should be replaced as soon as they show signs of wear or damage. Replacing the tags regularly is important to maintaining a safe and effective fire extinguisher system.

Safety Precautions Before Using a Tagged Fire Extinguisher 

  1. Before use, always read the instructions and warnings on the tagged fire extinguisher. 
  2. Check to ensure that the safety pin is still in place and that there are no visible signs of damage or corrosion.
  3. Always keep the extinguisher nozzle away from yourself and other people in the vicinity. 
  4. Stand at least 6 feet away from the fire when using the extinguisher.
  5. Check to ensure the fire has been completely extinguished after using the extinguisher, and stay on site until a professional fire crew has arrived. 

Conclusion

Tagging fire extinguishers can help keep you prepared in the event of a fire. So, make sure all extinguishers are tagged, regularly inspect them for any damage or wear, and keep a record of all tagged extinguishers for easy reference. You never know when a fire will break out in your home or business, so it’s always a good idea to be prepared.

Is it time for your fire extinguishers to be serviced and maintained? We’d be happy to help! Click here to get in touch with Fire-Alert today.