An emergency can happen at any time without notice. Being prepared for a variety of disasters with water, emergency food storage and other survival supplies is crucial to maintaining some control over the situation. Although often overlooked, your emergency preparedness supplies should include fire extinguishers to help protect your loved ones and your property.

A fire extinguisher is typically a hand-held, portable cylinder that you aim at the base of a fire and pull a trigger to discharge a dry chemical. It is used for small, contained fires, not fires that are out of control. Only fight a fire if you still have a means to escape. Follow your instincts and leave a house if the fire continues to grow.

Install multipurpose fire extinguishers that are labeled “ABC” for a variety of fire types. These are used for fires involving paper or wood, flammable liquids and grease, flammable gases and electrical fires involving appliances and equipment. ABC extinguishers cover most fires that occur in homes or in cars.

Fire extinguishers should be placed in your home and in each vehicle. Put an extinguisher in the kitchen, another one on each floor of the home, one in the garage and one in the basement. Do not store them too close to where a fire is likely to start. For instance, do not put a fire extinguisher in the cabinet next to the stove. If a fire starts at the stove, you will not be able to reach the extinguisher. Secure each fire extinguisher so that it is unable to be knocked over or pushed around. Place a fire extinguisher in front of the passenger seat of each vehicle, securely fastened to prevent damage.

Maintenance & Replacement

Do not make the mistake of installing fire extinguishers and then forgetting about them. Each month, visually inspect each fire extinguisher. Ensure that the instructions are visible, there are no obstructions in the way, the safety seals are intact, there is no corrosion or leakage, the hose and nozzle are in good condition, the pressure gauge is in the operable range, and check fullness by “hefting” the canister. It is a good practice to check each fire extinguisher when rotating your emergency food storage every month.

Perform maintenance annually. Check with your local fire department or fire extinguisher service company to examine all mechanical parts, extinguisher agent and means of expelling the agent. Some canisters may need a hydrostatic test that should be performed by experienced professionals. Replace all safety seals and remount each extinguisher. Keeping your fire suppression equipment in top condition will greatly increase your odds of successfully dousing a fire.

Most small multipurpose fire extinguishers are designed to be disposable. If you do have to break the safety seal to suppress a fire, replace the unit, even if you only used a small amount. It is better to be safe with a fully charged extinguisher than to hope a used one is ready for the next incident. If using a rechargeable canister, take it in immediately for replenishment, regardless of the indication on the gauge.

Make a Plan

Just as important as having fire extinguishers is having a fire escape plan. Develop a plan with the members of your household and make sure the plan is communicated effectively to each member. Discuss placement of each fire extinguisher and how to use them. Locate two exits from each room, and practice exiting in the dark. Remind each person to exit quickly in the event of fire and to crawl low to the ground while covering their mouth. Point out that closed doors should be felt before opening, and if the door is hot, leave it closed and use an alternate route. If the door is cool, open slowly with caution, ready to brace the door shut again if flames encroach. Designate a meeting place outside, and appoint one person to go to a neighbor to call for help. Install smoke alarms on each floor of your home, test them monthly, and replace the batteries twice a year. Practice your escape plan until it becomes routine, as thick smoke can cause confusion.

Emergency preparedness can appear overwhelming, but with a little planning and by following some routines, you can easily stay prepared for practically any disaster that may arise.

—Gary Jenkins

Gary Jenkins is a father and husband living in Oregon who is a wildlife rehabilitation and outdoor adventure enthusiast.