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If you own a business, you know that you need to ensure adequate fire safety, which includes having fire extinguishers on hand. You might not know that those fire extinguishers need to be recharged from time to time. In fact, without recharging, your fire extinguishers might not work when you need them. If you're like most people, you might not when fire extinguishers need to be recharged. If that's the case, read the information provided below. You'll find four situations that require fire extinguisher recharging. 

Your Fire Extinguisher Has Been Used

If you've had to use a fire extinguisher, it needs to be recharged right away. If you didn't need to use all the contents, you might think you can avoid the recharge, but that's not the case. Fire extinguishers need to be recharged after every use, even if only a small amount of the contents were discharged. Discharging a fire extinguisher releases the pressure that's built up inside the tank. This pressure is needed to ensure proper release with each use. To ensure proper protection, always have your fire extinguishers recharged after each use. 

Your Fire Extinguisher Seal Is Broken

If you've noticed that the seal is broken on one of your office fire extinguishers, have it recharged as soon as possible, even if you don't think the extinguisher has been used. Without the protective seal, you have no way of knowing if the fire extinguisher is safe to use. Because of that, you need to have your fire extinguishers recharged whenever a seal is removed. It's a good idea to inspect your fire extinguishers at least once a month. That way, you can monitor the seals and the inspection dates. 

Your Fire Extinguisher Has Been Damaged

If one of your fire extinguishers has sustained damage, schedule a recharge as soon as you can. Damage can cause the fire extinguisher to lose pressure. Once the tank is depressurized, it will no longer work properly. Signs of damage can include dents in the tank, cracks in the valves, or the presence of extinguisher material on the tank. If you notice any of these signs of damage, avoid use until you can have the tank recharged. 

Your Fire Extinguisher IsDue for Service

If it's been a few years since your fire extinguisher was inspected, schedule an inspection and recharge right away. You might not know this, but your fire extinguisher should be inspected on a regular basis. First, you should conduct a visual inspection at least once a month. Second, you should arrange for fire extinguisher servicing at least once a year. Finally, you should arrange for internal maintenance and inspections for your fire extinguisher at least once every six years. During the annual service call, you should have your fire extinguisher recharged, even if it hasn't been used.