It’s important to be prepared for the unexpected, and a part of keeping your business safe is ensuring that you have a working fire extinguisher on hand at all times. It’s easy to forget to check your fire extinguishers to make sure they’re in working order, and understanding the importance of having a working fire extinguisher at home can help you remember to keep fire safety at the top of your to-do list.
Why Do I Need a Fire Extinguisher in New Jersey?
Many people don’t think about fire safety until it’s too late. If you’re looking to find out more about whether you need a fire extinguisher in New Jersey, you’re doing the right thing by researching how to protect your business in the event that a fire occurs.
Fires happen quickly and unexpectedly, and having a fire extinguisher on hand is an important part of your business safety plan. In the event that a fire occurs, it’s important that both you and your employees know how to operate the fire extinguisher. In a crisis situation, it can often be difficult to remember what to do. Running your staff and employees through fire safety preparedness training can help to ensure that they won’t panic when faced with a fire.
How Do You Operate a Fire Extinguisher in New Jersey?
Thankfully, operating a fire extinguisher in New Jersey is simple. You can use the acronym PASS to remember how to operate your fire extinguisher. First, you’ll pull the pin (P) from the top of the fire extinguisher, preparing it to activate and spray the fire. Second, you’ll aim (A) the fire extinguisher toward the flames. Next, you’ll squeeze (S) the handles, which will allow the fire extinguisher to release chemicals that will help to put out the fire. Lastly, you’ll sweep (S) the extinguisher from side to side, spraying the extinguishing chemicals all over the fire until it’s completely out.
If the fire is small, you may be able to handle it yourself. If the fire is large and you’re not able to completely put it out with the fire o, or if you think that the fire may still be moving through the establishment in unseen areas (such as within walls or appliances), it’s important that you call your local fire department right away. Remember — there’s nothing wrong with reaching out to the fire department for help. They’re there to ensure that you, your staff and clients are safe, and it’s much better to have them come out for a false alarm than to later which you had made the call.
How Often Do I Need to Check My Fire Extinguisher in New Jersey?
Checking your fire extinguisher in New Jersey is simple. Once a month, take a look at the extinguisher and make sure that it’s free of rust and in good condition. You’ll also want to take a look at the pressure gauge and make sure that it’s properly pressurized so that you can use it effectively in the event of a fire. It’s also smart to know the date your fire extinguisher was manufactured (you should be able to find the date on the extinguisher itself). Many fire extinguishers have a shelf life of five to six years before they need to be replaced.
Where Can I Get a New Fire Extinguisher in New Jersey?
If you’re looking for a fire extinguisher in New Jersey, ABC Fire & Safety is here to meet all of your fire safety needs. Reach out to us today at 908-341-0143 to learn how we can help keep you and your family safe.