What To Do With an Expired Fire Extinguisher

Fire extinguishers are essential safety devices that can save lives and property in a fire emergency. However, like a lot of safety equipment, they have a limited lifespan and must be replaced or serviced periodically to keep them in good working condition.

Ignoring an expired fire extinguisher can lead to significant safety hazards, so it’s important to know how to address an expired extinguisher to ensure you’re always prepared to extinguish a fire.

In this blog post, the fire safety experts at City Fire & Safety explain how to handle an expired fire extinguisher so you can keep your property protected when the unexpected occurs.

Recognizing an Expired Fire Extinguisher

Determining if your fire extinguisher is expired is a relatively simple process. First, check the date on the label, usually located at the bottom or side of the extinguisher. Most fire extinguishers have a lifespan of 5 to 15 years, depending on the manufacturer. If you can’t find the expiration date on the label, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific details on the expiration date.

Physical signs of expiration or compromise include visible rust, corrosion, or damage to the extinguisher’s body. Another sign of expiration is the pressure gauge. If the needle is in the red zone, either overcharged or undercharged, the extinguisher may not function as expected during an emergency.

Issues With Using an Expired Fire Extinguisher

Using an expired fire extinguisher can lead to several safety issues, including:

• Safety risks: An expired extinguisher may not discharge correctly, potentially putting you at risk during a fire.
• Reduced effectiveness: The chemicals inside an expired extinguisher can degrade over time, making it less effective at putting out fires.
• Compliance issues: Many jurisdictions have regulations regarding the maintenance and replacement of fire safety equipment. Using an expired extinguisher could result in fines or violations.

How To Handle an Expired Fire Extinguisher

When you discover that a fire extinguisher at your property has reached the end of its lifespan, it’s important to dispose of it properly to avoid environmental hazards and ensure compliance with local regulations. Here’s what you should do:

• Fire department drop-off: Many local fire departments offer disposal services for expired fire extinguishers. Contact your local fire department to see if they offer this service.
• Hazardous waste facilities: Check for a hazardous waste disposal facility in your area. These facilities are equipped to handle and dispose of expired fire extinguishers safely.
• Recycling facilities: Some recycling centers accept fire extinguishers. Ensure that they follow proper procedures for depressurizing and recycling the unit.

Following these steps ensures that your expired fire extinguisher is disposed of safely and responsibly.

Contact City Fire & Safety Today

Whether your fire extinguisher is outdated or needs to be recharged, City Fire & Safety offers comprehensive fire protection solutions to keep your building safe during a fire emergency. Proudly offering fire safety services in Northern Virginia since 1985, we’re committed to ensuring ongoing protection of your property.

Get an estimate for a new fire extinguisher in Alexandria, VA by contacting our team.