Check fire extinguisher

Inspect your fire extinguisher to ensure it's ready for an emergency

Why it matters#

A fire extinguisher can stop a small fire before it spreads, but only if it's charged and accessible. You have about 2 minutes to act before a small fire becomes uncontrollable.

Steps#

1. Locate your extinguisher(s)#

You should have at least one on each floor, plus one in the kitchen and garage. They should be mounted or stored where you can grab them in seconds, not buried in a closet.

2. Check the pressure gauge#

The needle should be in the green zone. If it's in the red (either side), the extinguisher needs servicing or replacement. No gauge? It needs professional inspection.

3. Inspect the pin and tamper seal#

The pull pin should be in place and the tamper seal (plastic tie) should be intact. A missing seal means someone may have partially discharged it.

4. Check for physical damage#

Look for dents, rust, cracks, or a damaged hose/nozzle. Any damage means replacement is needed—don't risk a malfunction during a fire.

5. Verify it's the right type#

Kitchen extinguishers should be rated for grease fires (Class B or K). A general ABC extinguisher works for most home fires. Check the label.

6. Confirm the inspection date#

Extinguishers need professional inspection every 6 years and hydrostatic testing every 12 years. Check the tag. Disposable extinguishers should be replaced every 12 years.

7. Review PASS technique#

Pull the pin, Aim at the base of the fire, Squeeze the handle, Sweep side to side. Know this before you need it.

Pro tips#

• Check monthly and after any home event where the extinguisher might have been bumped or moved
• Mount extinguishers near exits so you can fight the fire while keeping an escape route
• Kitchen extinguishers should be at least 10 feet from the stove (so you can reach them if the stove is on fire)
• Consider a small extinguisher in your car—car fires happen

Warnings#

• Never use a fire extinguisher on a fire that's larger than you or spreading rapidly—evacuate instead
• Don't try to service an extinguisher yourself; have it professionally recharged after any use, even partial

When to call a pro#

If the gauge shows low pressure, the extinguisher is past its inspection date, or you've used it at all (even briefly), have it professionally serviced or replace it.