FIRE EXTINGUISHER/PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE - HELP!

Hello Friends!

I have taken over a new property where there seemed to have been no organization prior to coming on board - yikes! I'm really worried because there were lots of empty fire extinguishers left and who knows the last time preventive maintenance was performed.

Can someone please help me with advice on getting a Preventive Maintenance schedule started? Also, can someone tell me how often the fire extinguishers should be inspected, filled, etc?

Though I have been in the industry for some time, I am a new property manager, and I have so much to wrap my head around right now and just need some help in starting a few things! Thank you!

If there is an inspection tag on the existing extinguisher, you could contact this company. Or, when checking yellow pages or Google look for a NAFED certified company that is familiar eith the fire code requirements in your area. Inspections are typically governed by the local fire code that would require annual inspections.

When this inspection occurs the extinguisher tech will likely identify additional testing that may be required based on the age of the ext. Each 6 and 12 years requires additional testing. A good company will also inventory your product and help you budgrt for the next few years.

The first year will be the worst, but it will get better and cheaper. Then, you or your staff can conduct the monthly inspections with guidance from your tech.

First, I would say get with your management and let them know your concern and for the safety of families and properties you want to have an inspection of your fire extinguishers. Here is a little tidbit, now understand your state and city have their requirements, so use what I write here as an example only. Normally a minimum of a 5 pound ABC dry chemical or 3 gallon water extinguisher is mandatory).

I would get the maintenance man and get the old one collected up. Numerous was to do it, but I would say doing 10 or 20 at a time with temps put in place while the older ones are tested. Then the ones that have been tested. replace the collected ones with them and keep the process up until you have gone through all of your fire extinguishers.

Normally coordinating with the fire department ahead of time will save time with inspections and replacements. You could even have a resident rodeo in the evening where they bring their extinguishers get them checked, charged or replaced and make it a fun event where the fire department can even give some safety tips.

Now I am going above the fire extinguisher thing as if there was a problem there, I am sure there are others. Here is a sample from one location. Check with your city or country and I am sure they have the same kind of documents for you. www.rialtoca.gov/documents/downloads/Mul...spection_Program.pdf