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Fire Extinguisher Placement & Types: The Key to Fire Safety
Posted by the FSS Team on Feb 18th 2025
Fire extinguishers are essential tools for fire safety, but having them in the right places and choosing the correct type is just as important. Whether you manage a business, operate a healthcare facility, or oversee an industrial site, understanding fire extinguisher placement and classification can make all the difference in an emergency.
Where Should Fire Extinguishers Be Placed?
Fire extinguishers should always be visible and accessible to ensure a quick response when a fire occurs. The NFPA 10 Standard for Portable Fire Extinguishers outlines placement requirements based on the type of occupancy:
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Required in:
- Health care facilities
- Industrial and storage spaces
- Educational institutions
- Hotels, dormitories, and apartments
- Business offices and mercantile establishments
- Detention centers and correctional facilities
- Daycare and residential board & care facilities
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Not required in:
- One- and two-family dwellings
Fire extinguishers should be placed along normal travel paths, ensuring they are readily accessible and not obstructed. If visibility is a concern, arrows, lights, or signs should be used to indicate their location.
Height Requirements for Fire Extinguishers
Proper mounting is critical to ensure quick access:
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For extinguishers weighing more than 40 lbs:
- The top must not be more than 3.5 feet from the ground
- The bottom must be at least 4 inches off the ground
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For extinguishers weighing less than 40 lbs:
- The top must not be more than 5 feet from the ground
- The bottom must be at least 4 inches off the ground
Understanding Fire Extinguisher Classes
Different fire hazards require different extinguishers. Using the wrong type can be ineffective or even hazardous. Here is a breakdown of fire extinguisher classifications:
Class A: Ordinary Combustibles
- Used for fires involving wood, paper, cloth, and plastics
- Must be placed within 75 feet of potential hazards
Class B: Flammable Liquids
- Used for fires involving gasoline, oils, paints, and solvents
- Placement depends on the hazard level, with a maximum travel distance of 30 to 50 feet
Class C: Electrical Equipment
- Designed for fires involving energized electrical equipment
- Only used in conjunction with Class A or B extinguishers
Class D: Combustible Metals
- Required where magnesium, sodium, or similar metals are present
- Must be placed within 75 feet of potential hazards
Class K: Cooking Fires
- Specifically for fires involving cooking oils and fats in commercial kitchens
- Must be within 30 feet of the hazard area
Stay Safe & Compliant with Fire Safety Supply
Fire extinguishers are a vital part of any fire safety plan, but proper placement and selection are crucial for their effectiveness. At Fire Safety Supply, we offer top-quality fire extinguishers and expert guidance to ensure you stay compliant with NFPA standards.