Okay, I got permission from both the author of the book The RVer's Ultimate Survival Guide , Neil W. LeKander, and the online publisher, Coach-Net, of the article in their newsletter, Coach-Net Connection, to post a copy here. Both were enthusiastic for the opportunity to spread information about fire extinguisher safety.
-Joel
Holy Smoke!
January 22, 2014
In the July issue of this newsletter, we discussed RV Fire Safety and highlighted significant points to remember regarding your fire extinguisher and how to use it. In this issue, we would like to dig a little deeper into the maintenance of your fire extinguisher as it could be the very thing that saves you and your loved ones.
It is required by law that all RVs come equipped with fire extinguishers. As our RV Fire Safety article indicated, there are several different classes of fire extinguishers. Once you have determined that you have the correct type of extinguishers, your next priority is to keep them properly maintained by checking them monthly. Fire extinguishers need to be regularly checked to ensure that:
•The extinguisher is not blocked by furniture, doorways, or anything that might limit access in an emergency.
•The pressure is at the recommended level. Some extinguishers have gauges that indicate when the pressure is too high or too low. If the gauge indicates empty or inadequate pressure, replace or recharge the extinguisher immediately.
•All parts are operable and not damaged or restricted in any way. Make sure hoses and nozzles are free of insects or debris. There should not be any signs of damage or abuse, such as dents or rust, on the extinguisher.
•The outside of the extinguisher is clean. Remove any oil or grease that might accumulate on the exterior.
The first thing to verify is the date of manufacture of your fire extinguisher because of the NFPA 10 (National Fire Protection Agency: Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers) life limit on domestic fire extinguishers. Somewhere on the label, generally near the notation regarding extinguisher classification, there should be a box with a date code; i.e., 1995. That would be the date of manufacture. Plastic top domestic extinguishers have a six-year life limit while metal top extinguishers have a 12-year life limit. To test non-gauge extinguishers push the plunger indicator (usually green or black) in. If it does not come back, the extinguisher has inadequate pressure to expel its contents. If you need help testing your fire extinguisher, visit your local fire department.
If you use any portion of a powder extinguisher, have it refilled or replaced immediately. When an extinguisher has been partially used (even a small amount), a particle of the dry powder or dry chemical may become trapped in the valve causing the valve to leak pressure. Never put the dry powder or chemical fire extinguisher back into the bracket thinking that you "only used a little". Once the extinguisher has been discharged, it must be replaced or serviced. Should you desire to have a fire extinguisher refilled, request that they first shoot off the old charge (most refill stations have a special place where this can be done safely). If you can observe the procedure, it may let you witness how far it shoots and how long the charge lasts.
Invert and shake your dry powder or dry chemical extinguisher to loosen the powder. The vibration of your RV while you travel down the road will not keep the powder loose. In fact, it packs the powder tight - a condition that may make your extinguisher ineffective in fighting a fire. If for any reason you cannot detect movement of the powder within your extinguisher, replace it immediately or have it checked by an expert. Do not pull the pin and expel the contents to test your powder extinguisher.
For stored-pressure water/designer foam and Halon extinguishers, the maintenance process is considerably easier. They need to be inspected for physical damage and to verity that the pressure gauge has adequate pressure as evidenced by the normally green band on the gauge. Make sure you pay special attention to these details:
•If bent, damaged or improper gauge, depressurize and replace
•If pressure is low, check for leaks
•If over pressurized (overcharged), reduce to 100 psi (690 kPa) by depressing the valve lever and check for leaks.
Fire extinguishers are critical indoor components that are often overlooked. However, they must be maintained and inspected regularly as they are of little value if they are not kept in operating condition. Make sure you do your checks, know how to use them and be sure they will be ready if you need them.
Source:
Fire Extinguisher Maintenance cited with permission from The RVer's Ultimate Survival Guide by Neil W. LeKander.
To purchase this book, visit RVSafetyInfo.com
usfa.fema.gov
Amerex-Fire.com
