If you’re like many people, you know that fire extinguishers need to be inspected on a regular basis. But how often are you supposed to have them inspected by a professional? Where do you even go for a fire extinguisher inspection? This guide explains.

How Often – and Where – to Get a Fire Extinguisher Inspected

You should have your fire extinguishers inspected annually by a professional. Additionally, you should inspect them yourself at least once a month.

Your local fire department most likely has a program for inspecting fire extinguishers, as well as for accepting expired or discharged fire extinguishers. Here are some numbers you can call if you’re in the local area:

  • Ann Arbor Fire Department: 734-794-6961
  • Ann Arbor Fire Station 3: 734-794-6978
  • Ann Arbor Fire Station 4: 734-828-4596
  • Ann Arbor Fire Station 5: 734-794-6978
  • Ann Arbor Fire Station 6: 734-794-6966
  • Augusta Township Fire Department: 734-461-9500
  • Chelsea Area Fire Authority: 734-475-8755
  • Dexter Area Fire Department: 734-426-4500
  • Hamburg Township Fire Department: 810-222-1100
  • Jackson Fire Department: 517-788-4150
  • Milan Area Fire Department: 734-439-2843
  • Northfield Township Fire Department: 734-449-2385
  • Pittsfield Township Fire Department: 734-822-4911
  • Saline Area Fire Department: 734-429-4440
  • Scio Township Fire Department: 734-665-6001
  • Summit Township Fire Department: 517-788-4115
  • Superior Township Fire Department: 734-484-1996
  • Ypsilanti Township Fire Department: 734-544-4100

Related: What you should throw away after a house fire

How to Inspect Your Own Fire Extinguisher

Each month, you should inspect your own fire extinguishers. Follow these steps to get a good look at their condition:

  1. Look for obvious signs of damage, including corrosion, leaks or a clogged nozzle.
  2. Check the locking pin and make sure it’s intact. You should also make sure the tamper seal is unbroken.
  3. Make sure the pressure gauge is in the “Operable” range.
  4. Lift the fire extinguisher to make sure it’s still full of chemicals.
  5. Look at the last professional service date on the tag. If it’s been more than a year, you should take it to the fire department or another authority for an inspection.

Related: Can you salvage your belongings after a fire?

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