Resources

Resources

six red fire extinguishers

A | B | C | D | K

How to Choose a Fire Extinguisher

The best fire extinguisher for your business largely depends on what potential type of hazard may occur at the location. Not all fires are the same, and neither are the extinguishers used to put them out. The A, B, C, D, and K ratings on a fire extinguisher correlate with the specific type of fire that piece of equipment is best suited for. The Firehouse Co. will select the correct fire extinguisher size and type needed for your business.

CLASS A

Fires containing ordinary combustible materials, such as wood, cloth, paper, rubber, and many plastics.

CLASS B

Fires with flammable or combustible liquids, petroleum greases, tars, oils, oil-based paints, solvents, lacquers, alcohol, and flammable gases.

CLASS C

Fires that involve energized electrical equipment, such as computers, servers, motors, transformers and appliances.

CLASS D

Fires in combustible metals, such as magnesium, titanium, zirconium, sodium, lithium, and potassium.

CLASS K

Fires dealing with cooking appliances that involve combustible cooking media, such as vegetable or animal oils and fats.

Need to Know Codes

Staying in Compliance

Regular inspections, maintenance, and testing enable our customers to stay up-to-date with NFPA fire code, OSHA compliance, and other current regulations specific to their local authority having jurisdiction.

State Fire Marshal logo circle with the outline of the state of Texas in the center

Texas State Fire Marshal

The Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office creates the ordinances regarding fire extinguishers and fire extinguisher service and installation to reduce the loss of life and property. It is part of the Texas Department of Insurance.

Texas State Fire Marshal’s Office PDF.

National Fire Protection Agency logo

NFPA

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) is a global self-funded nonprofit organization devoted to eliminating death, injury, property and economic loss due to fire, electrical and related hazards.

Learn more about NFPA fire code and standards.

Occupational Safety and Health logo

OSHA

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) ensures safe and healthful working conditions for workers by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance.

Learn more about OSHA Fire Protection.

Things To Know

Fire Extinguisher Maintenance Cycle

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EVERY YEAR

Annual Inspection

A thorough examination (and repair) of every portable fire extinguisher at your facility. This OSHA & NFPA requirement keeps your business compliant with fire code.
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6 YEARS

Internal Examination

Specialized testing is required every 5 or 6 years (depending on extinguisher type) to ensure all components are in working order. This includes a complete discharge, thorough internal examination of cylinder and valve assembly, and full recharge.
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12 YEARS

Hydrostatic Testing

Certain fire extinguishers require hydrostatic testing of the cylinder every 5 or 12 years (depending on extinguisher type). This specialized pressure testing is performed in accordance with NFPA 10 and the manufacturer specifications.

Need A Professional To Inspect Your Fire Extinguisher?

Remember P.A.S.S

How To Use A Fire Extinguisher

fire extinguisher instructional graphic with a cartoon hand pulling the safety pin of a fire extinguisher
fire extinguisher instructional graphic with a cartoon hand pointing a fire extinguisher hose at a fire
fire extinguisher instructional graphic with a cartoon hand squeezing the lever of a fire extinguisher
fire extinguisher instructional graphic with a cartoon hand holding a fire extinguisher, sweeping from side to side

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do I know which type of fire extinguisher I need?

There are different classes of fires, and therefore, different classes of fire extinguishers that are designed to fight those types of fires. The Firehouse Co. can help you select the correct fire extinguisher size and type needed for your business.

Should I practice using a fire extinguisher?

Sure! Practice picking one up and be familiar with how to use one. This is something we can teach a team in our fire safety training, which includes identifying fire hazards, what to do in the event of a fire, using a fire extinguisher effectively, proper evacuation procedures and best exit paths, basic fire safety and prevention, and more.

How can The Firehouse Co. help my business?

We can make the fire protection process easy! The Firehouse Co. provides on-site fire extinguisher service, inspection, maintenance, testing, and sales—everything a new or established business needs to safely comply with all fire codes. We are trained, licensed, and insured to complete work safely on-site and are committed to reputable work and ethical business practices. We’d love an opportunity to earn your business, so connect with us here for a free quote or to schedule service