Should I get fire extinguishers for my home? If so, where do I put them, and how many should I have? - Prudential Alarm

Below are some basic guidelines that you may want to consider…

1. Number of Fire Extinguishers:

• At a minimum, it's recommended to have at least one fire extinguisher on each floor of your home.
• If your home has multiple levels, it's a good idea to have one on each floor, especially near areas with higher fire risk, like the kitchen, garage, or any room with heating equipment.

2. Type of Fire Extinguisher:

• Different types of fire extinguishers are designed to combat specific types of fires (e.g., Class A, B, C, D, K). For general home use, it's recommended to have an ABC-rated fire extinguisher, which can handle common household fires, including those from wood, paper, liquids, gases, and electrical equipment.

3. Placement:

• Kitchen: One of the most common places for fires to start is in the kitchen. Mount a fire extinguisher on a wall near the exit, away from the stove but easily accessible.
• Garage/Workshop: This area often contains flammable materials and equipment. Place a fire extinguisher near the entrance/exit.
• Utility Areas: Areas with furnaces, water heaters, or other potentially hazardous equipment should have an extinguisher nearby.
• Bedroom Areas: Consider placing one in or near sleeping areas for quick access in case of a fire at night.

4. Accessibility and Visibility:

• Ensure the fire extinguisher is easily visible and not blocked by furniture or other objects. It should be readily accessible in case of an emergency.

5. Maintenance:

• Regularly check the pressure gauge to ensure the extinguisher is charged and ready for use. Replace or recharge as needed.
• Make sure the pin and tamper seal are intact.

6. Training:

• Everyone in your household must know how to use a fire extinguisher. Familiarize yourself and your family with the PASS technique (Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep).

7. Additional Considerations:

• You may want to consider specialized extinguishers if you have specific hazards in your home (such as a fireplace or a workshop with specialized equipment).

Remember that while fire extinguishers are valuable tools for fire safety, they have limitations. They are most effective on small, contained fires. In case of a large or rapidly spreading fire, evacuate the premises and call the fire department immediately.

Also, it's essential to have working smoke detectors in your home. They provide early warning and can be lifesaving in a fire. Regularly test and maintain them as well.