A lot of house fires are preventable if you have a fire extinguisher on hand. If you don’t have one, you may want to consider getting it. For those who do, you need to ensure that you keep it in operating conditions so it is useable when you need it.
We’ve put together some helpful tips to help make sure your fire extinguisher is in proper working order:
Ensure easy access
Make sure the extinguisher is visible and easy to retrieve at a moment’s notice.
Check the pressure
If your fire extinguisher has a pressure gauge that indicates the operating range, always check to see that the gauge’s needle indicates the appropriate pressure. If it has a test indicator, press it to make sure the pressure reading is within the correct range.
Look out for physical damage
Inspect your extinguisher for visible signs of damage such as dents or rust; this may mean it’s time to replace the extinguisher. Also check that the can, hose and nozzle look to be in working in order. Document your checks on the extinguisher’s inspection tag (if it has one) may help you keep track of its maintenance history.
Clean the extinguisher!
Check the outside of each extinguisher for dust, oil or grease, and clean it as necessary.
Most fire extinguishers are generally good for 5 to 15 years so always check the extinguisher’s label or a paper tag for the expiration or last maintenance date. If it’s 10 or more years ago, you may want to get a new fire extinguisher.
Don’t overlook its maintenance — be sure your extinguishers are ready for use, just in case!
Purchase an Insurance Policy
Sometimes, despite our best preventive measures, the worst can happen so it pays to have a contingency plan. Our Householders Policy is a comprehensive cover which provides compensation in the event of damage to your building and contents of your home due to fire and a wide range of other risks. Our Fire Policy is a basic cover for the budget-conscious which provides compensation in the event of fire, lightening and explosion.
Whatever your insurance needs, Sacos caters to them all.
Pay us a visit at our branches (Maison Esplanade – Victoria, Pension Complex –Baie St. Anne Praslin, Green Corner –Providence) or call us on 429 5000 or send an email to info@sacos.sc. We’ll be more than happy to assist you!