Fire extinguishers should always be placed in easily accessible areas in case an emergency requires immediate action. To help prevent damage, mount extinguishers on brackets or place them on a counter top for easy access. It’s best to install fire extinguisher mounts at a height out of reach of young children but at a comfortable height for those that may need to use them. The National Fire Protection Association discourages the operation of extinguishers by children and recommends that only adults use portable fire extinguishers.
What Rooms Should Have Fire Extinguishers?
The NFPA recommends having a minimum 2-A:10-B:C rated fire extinguisher on every level of your home. You should not have to travel more than 40 feet to reach an extinguisher. Common places around the home that can be prone to fires include kitchens, laundry rooms, patio or grill areas, and garages or sheds.
Fire extinguishers kept in kitchens should be stored away from sources of high heat like stoves. With nearly 50% of fires starting in the kitchen, having immediate access to the correct type of fire extinguisher is crucial to helping put out a fire. Learn more about types of fires and fire extinguisher ratings to choose the correct extinguisher for each area.
What Temperature Can You Store a Fire Extinguisher?
Kidde fire extinguishers should be stored in temperatures ranging from -40 degrees to 120 degrees Fahrenheit. Fire extinguishers stored below -40 degrees Fahrenheit may result in the extinguisher's valve or hose cracking. At temperatures above 120 degrees, the fire extinguisher will still function, but the discharge time may be a little shorter than the 9 to 10 seconds required by Underwriters Laboratories UL.
Should Fire Extinguishers Be Stored Upright?
Proper fire extinguisher storage includes using the correct mounting brackets which keep the extinguisher in an upright position.
Can a Fire Extinguisher Be Stored in an Automobile?
Fire extinguishers can be kept in an automobile, RV, or trailer as long as temperatures do not fall outside of the range of -40 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.
