An important component of many Community Risk Reduction programs are home visits, conducted by fire department line personnel. NFPA 1452 serves as a guide for how fire departments should conduct these CRR home visits. Part of this guide refers to the presence of home fire extinguishing methods such as fire extinguishers. Many homeowners may not be aware of the value or use of these tools. It is important that firefighters know the answers to common questions regarding household fire extinguishers.
- What type, rating, and how many extinguishers are needed?
- How much will an extinguisher cost?
- Where should fire extinguishers be located and mounted?
- How are fire extinguishers operated and maintained?
NFPA 10, Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers provides the answers to these questions.
What type, rating and how many are needed?
NFPA 10, chapter 5 outlines the requirements for the “selection of portable fire extinguishers”. Selection should be based on the following:
- Type of fire most likely to occur (based on classifications, below)
- Size of fire most likely to occur
- Hazards in the area where the fire may occur
- Energized electrical equipment in the vicinity of the fire
- Ambient temperature conditions
Type of fire most likely to occur will determine the classification of extinguisher that is needed.
How much will it cost?
Homeowners can expect to pay $20 - $50 for a suitable fire extinguisher. These can be purchased at retail stores or online at sites like, Home Depot, Walmart, or Amazon.
Where should fire extinguishers be located?
Extinguishers should be located in areas that have the greatest potential for fire, such as the kitchen, garage, and laundry room. Extinguishers are to be mounted on the provided bracket at least 4” from the floor, but no higher than 5’ to the top of the handle. Extinguishers should accessible, visible, and within the normal path of travel to an exit.
How are extinguishers operated and maintained?
Extinguishers should be visually inspected, at least monthly, to determine that the unit is in its appropriate location, is accessible, and the gauge is within operational limits. The manufacturers inspection/testing/maintenance recommendations should be followed.
Extinguishers can be operated using the P.A.S.S. method.
Related Posts:
- Engaging Firefighters in Community Risk Reduction
- Conducting Home Visits
- Developing Public Education Programs
