So you have a fire extinguisher. Hopefully you'll never have to use it, but in case that you do we think it's important for you to understand how to store them, charge them and keep them safe for future use.
Fire extinguishers are classified by letters and numbers according to class and size. The letters(A,B,C,or D)indicate the class of the fire, and the number is a measure of the capacity of the extinguisher – the larger the number the greater the capacity of the extinguishing material to put out a fire.
Inspect your fire extinguishers monthly to make sure they are properly stored, charged and undamaged.
- Fire extinguishers should be replaced every about every 8 years.
- Portable extinguishers should be mounted where they are easily accessible
- Check the gauge to make sure the extinguisher is still charged
- Check seals and hoses for cracks and other imperfections
- Once you use a fire extinguisher, it should be recharged or replaced
Always make sure that your extinguisher label indicates that it is a U.S. Coast Guard approved marine type device. Contact your local Fish and Game department for more information regarding the correct fire extinguisher for your size and type of boat.
If you don't have a fire extinguisher or need a new one, check out our chrome fire extinguisher with mount.