I have five fire extinguishers, which is good. However, I realized that I have had them all for a long time and other than checking the pressure gauge, have never had them inspected, serviced, or recharged. They won't do much good if they don't work!
As ignorance is no excuse, I packed them all up (I used a strong, 6-pocket bag from the liquor store - smart, huh?) and headed to the fire and safety store. Although the shop is intended more for industrial and commercial fire and safety needs, I knew I'd get information I could trust.
Sure enough, I got a valuable lesson on extinguishers...and they didn't even try to sell me new ones. Basically, the various extinguishers I have are perfect for my needs. While the larger metal ones could be inspected and serviced/refilled, the gentleman informed me that the cost would almost be that of a brand new, larger extinguisher - especially since they were on sale. That being said, he went on to say that really, the 6 & 12 year certification rules are primarily for commercial enterprises (factories, stores, offices) and are not enforced for home extinguishers.
Furthermore, although he couldn't guarantee that my models were in working order (because the only way to do that is to discharge them and then refill them), he said that they do last many years and as long as the gauges say there is pressure, they are probably good. He also said that since I have so many of them, I would be adequately prepared with back-ups should one fail. The two little ones are disposable and can only be used once and then need to be replaced. The larger ones with metal tops (that's good to have!) are refillable and that means they stay out of landfills (also good!).
I learned that extinguishers are pretty durable, long-lasting, and pretty much unaffected by 'regular' cold and heat. They can be tilted occasionally to keep the powder inside from compacting but he didn't seem overly concerned about their condition, despite their age and lack of previous inspection!
There are three classes of fire: A - ordinary solid combustibles such as wood, cloth, paper. B - flammable liquids such as gas, oil, grease, paint, etc. C - energized electrical equipment including wiring, fuse boxes, circuit breakers, and appliances. Most home fires will start due to smoking, grease kitchen fires, a fuel burning appliance (e.g. furnace), or electrical/wiring.
A portable fire extinguisher can be used to put out a small fired or containing it until the fire department arrives. It is really a tool to be used to help get people safely away from a fire and not intended to fight large or spreading fires. You must know how to operate your extinguisher (there's no time to read or learn during an emergency), the extinguishers needs to be in the right spot, within easy reach, must be in working order, and must match the type of fire. Extinguishers are labeled according to the classes of fires I listed above. My small disposable ones are B-C and the larger ones are A-B-C. (You can use a B-C on an A fire though, but not a water extinguisher on a B or C fire).
You always want to make sure you have your back to an exit and stand 6-8 feet from the fire. When you discharge the extinguisher you should aim low and sweep from side to side. You also need to get out if the fire doesn't begin to go out! Finally, make sure the fire department inspects the fire site afterwards!
I have peace of mind now knowing that I have suitable extinguishers for the home. They are dusted and arranged in appropriate places (at the top of the stairs leading to the electrical panel, gas fireplace, and furnace) and under the kitchen sink (they should not be stored next to the stove or heating appliances), and I have one in my car. I'm a firm believer in being informed by professionals and asking many questions until I'm satisfied I know what I need to. Safety is very important, as is being prepared. I hope I never have to use my extinguishers but I feel better knowing they are there at the ready should I need them! And that is your safety PSA for today! Class dismissed!