Be prepared for emergencies by keeping a working fire extinguisher in an accessible part of your home.

A fire extinguisher can be the difference between a minor house fire and a total loss of your home. However, a fire extinguisher is only as effective as its availability in the event of a disaster. If there is no fire extinguisher anywhere when the fire starts, it is as if there were none.

Here’s where you should store a fire extinguisher in the home and expert advice on how to use a fire extinguisher effectively.

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Where Should You Store a Fire Extinguisher?

Here are the most effective places to keep a fire extinguisher ready in your home.

Every Floor of the House

The more floors a house has, the more difficult it can be to escape a fire; Therefore, you should have at least one fire extinguisher. on every floor of the house. Even if a fire extinguisher cannot fully control the flame, it can give you brief access to an exit and save your life. “Having a fire extinguisher on every level of the home is ideal,” says Courtney Klosterman, home insights expert at Hippo Insurance. “Fire extinguishers are best stored in easy-to-reach locations and away from heat sources, such as under the kitchen sink or entryways.”

Kitchen

It’s no surprise that most home fires start in the kitchen. In addition, fires in the kitchen can spread rapidly due to the close proximity of flammable materials such as linens and cooking oil. Therefore, you should have a fire extinguisher in your kitchen that you can easily access.

Garage

Garages are another area of ​​concern when it comes to house fires. Garages often house items such as vehicles. flammable liquids and chemicalsvehicles and various home components things that have the potential to catch fire.

Laundry Room

According to the National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA), fires caused by clothes dryers or washing machines occur in an estimated 15,970 homes each year. while The heat of the dryer can ignite the powderLint and other clothing-related debris, even washers, may be to blame, as components like belts and cables can catch fire.

Relating to: 6 Routine Cleaning Tasks That Can Prevent a Major Home Disaster

Near Open Flames or High Risk Areas

Beyond specific rooms, it’s not a bad idea to place fire extinguishers near high-risk areas. First Alert Fire Safety product manager Lisa Omuzlar advocates placing fire extinguishers around grills, fireplacesand other spots with open flames.

Fly

When in doubt, follow the National Fire Prevention Association and local fire safety codes for proper fire extinguisher storage.

Where Should You Not Store a Fire Extinguisher?

Now that you know where to go Hide your fire extinguisher, here are the points where it should never be hidden.

• Too close to a heat source. High heat such as stove, fireplace, ovenor similar substances may damage various components of the fire extinguisher.

• It was uncovered in a garage. While having a fire extinguisher in your garage is a great idea, make sure it is placed in a protected manner and is not exposed to possible damage from sharp tools or vehicles.

• Within reach of children. “If there are children in the home, fire extinguishers should be kept out of their reach, but still within easy reach of adults,” Shoulders advises.

• It is exposed to the elements. Especially exposure to the elements Areas that may be exposed to extreme heat and coldmay endanger the fire extinguisher.

• Anywhere that is hidden or out of sight. We understand; Fire extinguishers aren’t the most beautiful home decor pieces. However, you need to make sure that fire extinguishers are easily available because during a fire, every second counts.

• On the ground. Placing a fire extinguisher on the ground makes it vulnerable to damage and difficult to find in emergencies.

Fire Extinguisher Tips

Learning the ins and outs of fire extinguishers and the proper way to use them is the best way to ensure you’re ready and equipped to put out a home fire. Here are some fire extinguisher tips to remember.

1. Position fire extinguishers along normal travel paths.

If you’re having trouble deciding between two spots for a fire extinguisher, NFPA recommends choosing the one closer to the exit by default. This way, no occupant needs to leave the exit to get the fire extinguisher.

2. Know when a fire extinguisher is worth using.

“Always evaluate the situation carefully before using the fire extinguisher,” Shoulders says. “If the fire is very large or spreading quickly, your safety must come first. Instead of fighting the fire yourself, evacuate the house immediately and call 911.

3. Memorize the PASS technique.

PASS stands for “Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep.” This is the sequence of actions for properly using a fire extinguisher to extinguish a flame.

4. Choose the correct class of fire extinguisher.

Fire extinguishers are not one size fits all. Different classes of fire extinguishers are suitable for different fire types and situations. Consult the NFPA to understand the different classes of fire extinguishers to ensure your home is equipped with the appropriate fire safety equipment.

5. Monitor fire extinguishers to ensure they are ready for use.

Fire extinguishers don’t last forever. Yours probably has an expiration date written on it somewhere. “To ensure the safe use and storage of a fire extinguisher, check the pressure gauge monthly, hold the extinguisher to confirm it is charged, store it at room temperature, and make sure it is visible and easily accessible,” Klosterman advises. Preparing your fire equipment for emergencies is something you should include in your planning. home maintenance checklist.