Frequently Asked Questions
Please Note: These questions and answers is designed to be helpful in raising awareness about Smiths Fire and our services and products and other accessories. It is not a substitute for legal advice. It may not cover important issues that affect you. You should consult with your local AHJ if you have additional questions.
Remember the acronym PASS:
Pull the pin, Aim the nozzle, Squeeze the trigger, and Sweep the base of the fire. Stand at a safe distance from the fire and aim the nozzle at the base of the flames. Squeeze the trigger to release the extinguishing agent and sweep the nozzle back and forth until the fire is out.
Maintenance and servicing of fire extinguishers should be performed by a licensed and insured fire extinguisher servicing company that has the proper tools, training, recharge materials, lubricants, manufacturer’s servicing instructions, and replacement parts.
Monthly – quick check to ensure that the fire extinguisher is in the designated place with no obstruction to access or visibility, and that the pressure gauge indicator is in the operable range.
Annually – a thorough examination of the basic elements of the fire extinguisher performed by a trained person who has undergone the necessary instructions and has the manufacturer’s service manual.
Commercial kitchens require a Class K fire extinguisher, which is designed to put out fires that start from cooking oils and fats.
Pressure testing of a fire extinguisher to verify its strength against unwanted rupture performed by a facility that is approved by the D.O.T. to requalify cylinders.
• Dry chemical: 12 years
• Water, foam, K: 5 years
• Halogenated clean agent: 12 years
• Carbon dioxide: 5 years
An internal examination of an emptied dry chemical fire extinguisher to check for corrosion and any interior problems. Extinguishers that pass the six year maintenance are then recharged, reassembled, and receive a six year service label and a verification of service collar.
• Class A – Wood, Paper, Cloth, Trash
• Class B – Flammable Liquids
• Class C – Electrical
• Class D – Combustible Metals
• Class K – Combustible Cooking
• Fire extinguishers having a gross weight not exceeding 40 pounds shall be installed so that the top of the fire extinguisher is not more than 5 feet above the floor.
• Fire extinguishers having a gross weight exceeding 40 pounds shall be installed so that the top of the fire extinguisher is not more than 3 1/2 feet above the floor
• In no case shall the clearance between the bottom of the fire extinguishers and the floor be less than 4”
The following are NFPA-10 minimum recommendations per floor:
• A single fire extinguisher rated 2-A:10-B:C or higher.
• One single fire extinguisher rated 2-A or higher, and a second fire extinguisher rated 10-B:C or higher.