WhEN SHOULD YOU RECHARGE YOUR FIRE EXTINGUISHER?
There are two types of extinguishers.
1. Disposable Fire Extinguishers: As the name suggests, these fire extinguishers are made for one-time use. They come with an expiration date, typically 12 months from the date of manufacture. These cannot be recharged. They need to be entirely replaced after expiration. You must check your extinguisher to see if it is a disposable one.
2. Rechargeable Fire Extinguishers: This reusable type needs to be inspected, recharged and refilled to ensure it works when there is fire. The fire extinguisher must be checked yearly by a professional and recharged immediately to avoid hazards. If your extinguisher has been used even once, it needs to be recharged as soon as possible.
Based on the type of extinguisher, here is the list of recommended recharge schedules:
- ABC Dry Chemical Fire Extinguishers: These versatile fire extinguishers can handle multiple types of fires (A, B, C). They should be recharged every 6 years or as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Water-Based Fire Extinguishers: Water extinguishers should be recharged every 5 years or as recommended by the manufacturer.
- CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) Fire Extinguishers: CO2 fire extinguishers, often used for electrical fires, should be recharged every 5 years or as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Foam Fire Extinguishers: Foam extinguishers should be recharged every 5 years or as recommended by the manufacturer.
- Wet Chemical Fire Extinguishers: Wet chemical fire extinguishers, typically used in commercial kitchens, should be recharged every 5 years or as recommended by the manufacturer.
