How To Install Your New Portable Fire Extinguisher

After purchasing a new portable fire extinguisher, it’s important that you know where and how to install it. In most cases, the hanger that comes with it will require the insertion of three self-tapping screws.

According to NFPA 10, Section 1-6.7, “Portable fire extinguishers other than wheeled types shall be securely installed on the hanger or in the bracket supplied or placed in cabinets or wall recesses. The hanger or bracket shall be securely and properly anchored to the mounting surface in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. Wheeled-type fire extinguishers shall be located in a designated location.”

Choosing a spot to mount them is not as difficult as it may seem, depending on the particulars of your situation. First up, mount it in plain view so everyone can clearly see it, even if it’s a visitor who happens to be in the vicinity when a fire occurs. If it’s going to be in a show room or retail space, be sure to mount them in such a manner that it’s difficult for children to reach them. Oh, be sure it’s mounted some distance away from possible sources of a fire, such as kitchen appliances, gas-fired boilers, etc. It should be placed where you can get to it when you’re on your way to an exit.

What about mounting height? According to NFPA 10, Section 1-6.10, “Fire extinguishers having a gross weight not exceeding 40 lb shall be installed so that the top of the fire extinguisher is not more than than 5 ft above the floor.

Fire extinguishers having a gross weight greater than 40 lb (except wheeled types) shall be so installed that the top of the fire extinguisher is not more than 3.5 ft above the floor. In no case shall the clearance between the bottom of the fire extinguisher and the floor be less than 4 in.”

ESC offers several sizes of ABC-type portable fire extinguishers: 2.5 lb, 5 lb ABC’s, and 10 lb. This is the most common type of fire extinguisher that there is. Larger extinguishers are available. We also offer CO² fire extinguishers: 10 lb and 20 lb.

To view a list of fire extinguishers that we offer, go to: http://bit.ly/2N0nyEC
Questions? Call ESC at 614-754-1393, email us at [email protected], or please use the contact form below.