Fire Extinguishers

Portable fire extinguishers can help put out a small fire or contain it until the fire department arrives in the event of a fire; the number 1 priority of residents is to get out safely. Every household should have a home fire escape plan and working smoke alarms.

National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Fire Extinguisher Safety Tips

• Use a portable fire extinguisher when:
  • The fire is confined to a small area, such as a wastebasket, and is not growing
  • Everyone has exited the building
  • The fire department has been called
  • The room is not filled with smoke
• For home, select a multi-purpose extinguisher (can be used on all types of home fires) that is large enough to put out a small fire, but not so heavy ask to be difficult to handle
• Read the instructions that come with the fire extinguisher and become familiar with its parts and operation before a fire breaks out

For safety tips and information about the use of fire extinguishers visit the NFPA website.

Servicing Fire Extinguishers

Where can I service a fire extinguisher? Make sure your unit is a rechargeable type, and not a disposable model. Disposable models cannot be recharged. Old fire extinguishers can be recycled at the Washington County Environmental Center.

To locate a local service company to recharge your extinguisher do an internet search for "Fire Extinguisher Sales and Service".