If a small fire breaks out inside your business, it is critical that you have a general fire extinguisher nearby. General fire extinguishers can help protect you and your customers and keep a small fire from growing into one that could cause a large amount of damage. A small investment in portable fire extinguishers can save you a large amount of time, money and frustration, in case of a fire.

With so many types of fire extinguishers for sale, buying a fire extinguisher can be a confusing process. This guide will help you:

1. Safeguard your business with the right type of fire extinguishers.

2. Get professional help installing fire extinguishers.

3. Find a program to properly maintain your fire extinguishers.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Purchase fire extinguishers

These days, there are eight major types of fire extinguishers on the market, and it is critical that you chose the right type for your business. Fire extinguishers use a specific combination of foam, water and chemicals to put out specific types of fires. For example, you would never use a water and foam fire extinguisher to put out an electrical fire, because of the shock hazard. Your fire extinguisher supplier will be able to guide you to the right type of fire extinguishers for your business.

I recommend: Strike First Corporation of America is a fire extinguisher provider that stocks a large supply of fire extinguishers. Also, the company's website has a guide to choosing the proper fire extinguisher. Check out Fire Safety Supply for a wide selection of fire extinguishers, ranging from basic multipurpose fire extinguishers to high-end fire extinguishers for use around expensive machinery.

Install your fire extinguishers

Once you've figured out what type of fire extinguishers you need, you should install them in the right locations. In case a fire breaks out, you want the right type of fire extinguisher to be close by. A professional fire extinguisher installer can help you place your fire extinguishers in locations where they will be easy to access.

I recommend: The staff at Macks Fire Protection, based in Michigan, is glad to help you determine the best place for a portable fire extinguisher. Fire Systems installs fire extinguishers in the Atlanta metro area.

Maintain your fire extinguishers

Routine maintenance is critical to keeping your fire extinguisher working properly. In fact, depending on where your business is located, routine inspections of your fire extinguishers may be required by law.

I recommend: Fire Fighters Equipment Company, based in Florida, inspects, services and repairs all types of fire extinguishers. Southwest Fire Protection inspects and services fire extinguishers in Texas. The company can also help you stay up to date on laws and guidelines regarding fire extinguishers.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  After your fire extinguishers are installed, have a professional come in to train you and your employees on the proper use of a fire extinguisher. After all, a fire extinguisher is no good if no one knows how to use it. Many of the same companies that inspect fire extinguishers also offer training.