Fire Extinguishers

While an automatic fire suppression system is a requirement for many businesses, for example, all commercial kitchens
need to have at least one portable fire extinguishers on hand in case of a fire.

Besides having one fire extinguisher in your business, don’t forget it is important to store additional fire extinguishers throughout.

Choosing a Fire Extinguisher For Your Business

Not all fire extinguishers are the same. Before buying any fire extinguisher you need to know the differences between different types of extinguishers and understand which is the best solution for your store.

Every fire extinguisher has its own class based on the type of fire it is best suited to put out.

After selecting a fire extinguisher that is perfect for your business, you need to decide whether you want to purchase one which is rechargeable or a non-rechargeable.

There are advantages and disadvantages for each type.

After using a rechargeable extinguisher, you can bring it in for servicing and a refill. On the other hand, you will need to throw away and replace a non-rechargeable extinguisher after each discharge, even if you did not use up its contents. Although rechargeable extinguishers are more expensive to purchase initially, most business owners go with that option.

The last decision you will need to make when it comes to choosing which portable fire extinguisher is right for you is to choose either a tagged or non-tagged model.

The only difference between the two types of extinguishers is that tagged models are pre-inspected so you can immediately install it in your business.

Non-tagged commercial fire extinguishers must be inspected locally before it is allowed in your business.

While tagged extinguishers are acceptable in most municipalities, some won’t accept them. It is up to you to know your local regulations.

Different Types of Fire Extinguishers For Your Business

It is a good idea to have different types of extinguishers to protect your business from specific kinds of fires.

Class ABC fire extinguishers have the ability to handle any type of fire. This makes them a popular option as a general fire extinguisher. Class ABC extinguishers use mono ammonium phosphate which effective for fighting fires, but is extremely corrosive and takes a long time to clean up after using.
Halotron fire extinguishers are effective against flammable liquids and electrical fires. These extinguishers evaporate quickly leaving only a small amount of powder behind. This makes them a good choice for use around electrical equipment which would be damaged with liquid.
Carbon Dioxide fire extinguishers are good for combating electrical fires. Since they work by removing oxygen from the air, you should never use this type of extinguisher in a small, confined space.
Water Mist fire extinguishers can put a fire burning combustible materials like wood and cloth or electrical fires. Since these extinguishers do not use any chemicals, there is no extensive cleanup after use, but they are not the most effective fire suppression option.

Keeping Legal

Buying the right fire extinguishers for your business is just the first step. Too many business owners forget to have all of their portable fire extinguishers inspected on an annual basis as required under the NFPA 10 guidelines. Failing to keep up with proper inspections can lead to not only fines or worse.

Don’t let it happen to you. Firetex, LLC, can help.

Our company is different. We have years of experience dealing with national and local commercial fire extinguisher requirements. Let us select the best extinguishers to suit your business and stop worrying