What to Know Before Purchasing a Fire Extinguisher

Putting fire extinguishers inside your house sounds like a smart move. For less than $50, you can snuff out fires right away and save money on property damage. If you’re wondering whether you really need a fire extinguisher, the answer is probably yes. But more goes into purchasing one than you might think. Do a bit of research before you select the best fire extinguisher for your home in Longview, TX.

Cover all your bases

Before asking if you really need a fire extinguisher, take note of the fire safety measures already in place in your home. Smoke detectors are the number one method for preventing fires and should be located in every room of your home. They’re easy to install, and you can buy a perfectly good one for only $10. Check the batteries on a regular basis to ensure your smoke detectors are functioning properly.

Families should also have a fire evacuation plan in place so everyone knows exactly what to do in case of an emergency. Protecting lives is far more important than protecting property. If your kitchen goes up in flames, make sure every single person has left the building before you attempt to put out the fire.

Types of fire extinguishers

Not all fire extinguishers work the same, and using the wrong type can make fires a lot worse. When you’re ready to purchase one, look closely at the combination of letters and numbers on every fire extinguisher. These labels determine the power levels and types of fires they’re designed to extinguish.

Units with “A” in the label mean they can extinguish water-safe material like wood and fabric. “B” means it works on flammable liquids, and “C” refers to electronics. The double-digit number tells you the volume of liquid inside the fire extinguisher. For example, a 1-A:10-B:C extinguisher works with any kind of fire and has one quarter of a 40-B’s firefighting capacity.

When to use one

The sooner you spot a fire, the easier it is to contain. Extinguishers can tackle small bursts of flames that may occur on your stovetop. If this happens, first make sure you’re the only person left inside the house. Another family member should call the fire department in Longview, TX. First responders are always needed in the event of an emergency, even if you’re able to put out the fire on your own.

Keep your back to a safe exit while extinguishing the fire. A couple flames can morph into an inferno within minutes, so get out right away if the fire begins to spread. Remember, fire extinguishers are designed for small, manageable fires only. Also, don’t attempt to put out the fire if you have the wrong type of extinguisher for that situation.

Let’s say you really do need a fire extinguisher. It’s important to purchase the right one, and working with the right company can help ensure you make the right selection. Anchor Safety Inc. supplies industry-leading fire extinguishers to both home and business owners in Longview, TX. Read more on our website to see which fire extinguisher is right for your home.

Categorised in: Fire Extinguishers

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