Fire Extinguishers: Checking The Safety Standards

Deaths due to fires and smoke inhalation are on the rise due to the congested living conditions in flats, houses, in the cities and towns. Fires are caused by arson, by an electrical fault or by a chimney fire. Another cause of fire and its related death is cooking accidents. In most cases, human error is the offender and it is the number one worry for any homeowner or fire brigade.

The most important tool you should have in your house, at the ready, is a fire extinguisher. It should be a small, easily handled model and must always be fully loaded. The fire extinguisher should bear the safety code for the country, BAFE. This seal stands for British Approvals for Fire Equipment. Without this code, the fire extinguisher is not approved as a safety measure and may not work properly in case of an emergency.

Your fire extinguisher should be checked at least once a year, either during a home inspection by the fire brigade or by taking the fire extinguisher itself to the station. The fire fighters can teach you and your family how to properly use the mechanism and make sure it is in good working order. They will check to make sure it is loaded and sign the ticket for its yearly inspection.

Your house insurance will take note when you have a fire extinguisher, so be sure to mention that to your agent. Also make sure the fire alarms are in good working order and the batteries are replaced at least once a year. Check that the alarm is working by pushing the button and a crisp, resounding blare will sound.

Storing your fire extinguisher is a very important point. It should not be put in a cupboard or under the sink. It should be attached to the wall above the reach of young children and near the area which would likely have a fire flare up. The kitchen area would be the best spot but not near or adjacent to the cooker.

You could have one on each floor as well as the fire alarms. That would assist you with any fire emergencies. The fire extinguisher should be placed on the way out of the house so that you are not held up looking for it. No one should be held up getting out of the house by stopping to find the fire extinguisher.

No one should stay to fight a fire on his/her own. Make sure that all children and adults are safely removed from the house and you are on your way as well. Call the fire brigade to have them fight the fire. They are trained to do the job with few if any casualties.