Pop Quiz: How Often Should You Replace Your Home’s Fire Extinguisher?

4/29/2022 (Permalink)

At SERVPRO we spend a lot of time teaching our customers about the importance of fire safety. Not only do we want you and your family to stay safe and steer clear of fire hazards, we also know you want to avoid the expense associated with professional fire restoration. 

In addition to knowing your escape route in the event of a fire, and being able to identify and minimize the fire hazards on your property, can you answer basic but important questions like how often you should replace your fire extinguisher? 

It’s not a trick question, though the answer might surprise you. Most household fire extinguishers should be replaced every 12 years, regardless of their condition; rechargeable varieties should be recharged in half that time, so every six years. 

Can’t remember when you first purchased your fire extinguisher? No worries! 

Simply check the expiration date on the body of the cylinder; sometimes it’s stamped closer to the extinguisher’s neck. If, for whatever reason, you cannot locate the date, it might be best to play it safe and purchase a new one that does have the date listed on it. 

In the event that your fire extinguisher failed to put out a fire and you find yourself in need of professional fire restoration service, contact your team at SERVPRO of Stoneham / Wakefield.