Fire Extinguisher Explosion Safety: What Homes & Businesses Should Know
Fire extinguishers are among the most important pieces of emergency equipment found in homes, businesses, warehouses, construction sites and commercial facilities across the United States.
They are designed to help control a fire during its early stages, but many portable fire extinguishers are also pressurized cylinders. That makes proper inspection, storage, handling and maintenance an important part of fire safety.
What Happened at the Manhattan Construction Site?
According to a report from ABC7 New York, a fire extinguisher exploded at a construction site located at 341 Ninth Avenue in Chelsea, Manhattan.
The incident occurred during the morning at the construction site. One construction worker died at the scene and another worker was transported to a hospital in serious condition.
ABC7 also reported that two police officers who may have been responding to the incident were injured after their vehicle collided with another vehicle nearby.
Fire Extinguishers Are Pressurized Safety Equipment
A portable fire extinguisher may appear simple from the outside, but it is a complete fire-protection device consisting of a cylinder, valve assembly, extinguishing agent and other operating components.
When an extinguisher is damaged, heavily corroded, improperly stored or otherwise compromised, it should be evaluated rather than casually handled or returned to service.
Inspect the Cylinder
Look for dents, severe corrosion, physical damage or other visible signs that the extinguisher cylinder may have been compromised.
Check the Pressure
Where a pressure gauge is provided, inspect its condition and verify that the extinguisher indicates an appropriate operating condition.
Inspect the Valve
The valve, handle, hose and operating components should not show obvious damage or conditions that could interfere with safe use.
Use the Correct Rating
Choose a fire extinguisher designed for the hazards present in the home, business, vehicle or commercial property where it will be installed.
Store It Properly
Fire extinguishers should remain accessible while being protected from unnecessary impacts, damaging conditions and inappropriate storage environments.
Replace Questionable Equipment
If an extinguisher appears damaged, compromised or unsafe, do not assume that it remains suitable for emergency use.
Commercial Fire Extinguisher Safety
Businesses may have multiple fire extinguishers installed throughout offices, warehouses, retail properties, industrial facilities, apartment buildings and construction sites.
Because fire extinguishers may remain mounted for long periods before they are ever needed, routine inspection and appropriate maintenance are important parts of a commercial fire-safety program.
Residential Fire Extinguisher Safety
Homeowners should also consider where extinguishers are located and what types of hazards exist within the property.
Garages, kitchens, workshops and utility areas may involve different fire risks. Choosing properly rated equipment and keeping it accessible can help improve emergency preparedness.
ABC Dry Chemical Fire Extinguishers
ABC dry chemical extinguishers are commonly used where protection is needed against several common classes of fire hazards. Depending on the extinguisher's listed rating and intended application, they may be suitable for ordinary combustible materials, flammable liquids and energized electrical equipment.
When selecting an extinguisher, review the actual fire rating, capacity, certification and intended application rather than choosing equipment based only on its physical size.
Fire Extinguisher Safety Across the United States
Whether fire extinguishers are being selected for a home, commercial building, warehouse, fleet vehicle, construction project or industrial facility, the basic principle remains the same: use equipment appropriate for the hazards present and keep it in serviceable condition.
Property owners, facility managers and contractors should also follow applicable local fire codes, workplace requirements, manufacturer instructions and inspection or maintenance requirements in their jurisdiction.
Need Fire Extinguishers for Your Property?
Tesla Fire Systems supplies fire extinguishers and fire protection products for residential, commercial and industrial applications.
Review the extinguisher rating and application before selecting equipment for your home, business or facility.
Browse Fire Extinguishers