Fire Extinguishers outdated reminder

[Ken Cross]

I just ordered new fire extinguishers. If the label on yours show a date older than 12 years, you need to replace them too. 2 of ours were 22 years old and one was 12.

I had a hard time finding out how old Fire Extinguishers can be before they must be discarded. I finally found it on the US Coast Guard Auxiliary web site:
http://wow.uscgaux.info/content.php?unit=V-DEPT&category=questions-answers

Here is what I ordered.
http://shop.sailboatowners.com/prod.php?2470
Ken

 

[twalker H260]

Ken. It appears from the linked document referred to on that site the 12yr limit applies only to fire extinguishers that are "not refillable". Still doesn't hurt to replace if in any doubt!

Link from your referenced site refers to and links to this document.

http://vdept.cgaux.org/pdf-files/Portable-Fire-Extinguisher-Inspection-And-Maintenance-FAQ.pdf

 

[Ken Cross]

As I understand it, refillable units must be emptied, pressure tested, and refilled after 12 years.

Interestingly enough, I ordered them yesterday and FedEx tracking says they will be here today.

Ken

 

[Ken13559]

As I understand it, refillable units must be emptied, pressure tested, and refilled after 12 years.

Interestingly enough, I ordered them yesterday and FedEx tracking says they will be here today.

Ken

Perhaps they thought you're in need of one in a hurry

 

[Ken Cross]

I'm glad I wasn't in a hurry. Actually I was surprised how fast I got them. I signed up for a USCGA inspection next Friday and hoped to be ready by then.
I guess that wasn't a problem.
Ken

 

[Ron20324]

And remember the Kidde recall going on. I got my new one in 12 days.
http://kidde.inmar-event.com/StandardRegister/LPR.asp?L=607&ac=&ar

 

[Ken Cross]

Thanks Ron

And remember the Kidde recall going on. I got my new one in 12 days.
http://kidde.inmar-event.com/StandardRegister/LPR.asp?L=607&ac=&ar

I should have thought of that.
Ken

 

[Gunni]

So what did you do with the old fire extinguisher? Pressure vessels are prohibited from household waste disposal.

 

[Scott T-Bird]

Good question ...

My old ones are generally sitting around in various corners of my basement and garage. I wonder how many I have accumulated over the years. I can't recall actually getting rid of any.

 

[Gunni]

I suppose you could discharge them into a trash can and snap off the valve. That would render the shell recyclable / disposable.

 

[Ken Cross]

If they are discharged they can go out with the trash. In our area the hazardous waste place takes them. Our local fire department didn't want them.

I suspect discharging them into a garbage can won't contain the mess. Possibly if they are discharged upside down, then remove the valve and dump the powder. I have no idea.
Ken

 

[gpd955]

If you have an ample back yard let your crew practice train with them. Many people have never had the opportunity to put out a fire with a fire extinguisher. It'll give them a chance to see how effective/ineffective the extinguisher and their technique can be before an emergency arises on board. Obviously make sure it's done safely and lawfully!

 

[Ron20324]

I got a replacement for the recalled Kidde units. It came with a note to not use the old one, but to discharge it and trash it. I'm pretty sure it said to just dischage it downwind, that the ingredients would fade into the wind.

 

[Chris Patterson]

I got a replacement for the recalled Kidde units. It came with a note to not use the old one, but to discharge it and trash it. I'm pretty sure it said to just dischage it downwind, that the ingredients would fade into the wind.

That is exactly what they told me at that Mexican restaurant where I pile-drived all those burritos. This is probably so, but the neighbors are STILL unhappy...

 

[Ron20324]

If they are discharged they can go out with the trash....

See PDF...