A Smart Prepper Move: Your Home Needs a Fire Extinguisher

Fire safety is an essential aspect of home safety that should not be overlooked. Fires can occur at any time, and they can cause significant damage to property and even lead to loss of life. Having a fire extinguisher in the home is one of the most effective ways to prevent small fires from becoming big ones. This is a smart prepper move that really is a no brainer!
Fire Danger – More Common Than You Realize
Home fires are a common occurrence, and they can have devastating consequences. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), there were 1,291,500 fires reported in the United States in 2020, resulting in 3,420 deaths and 16,720 injuries. These fires caused $14.8 billion in property damage.
Not having a fire extinguisher in the home can increase the potential dangers of a fire. Small fires can quickly escalate into large ones if not addressed promptly. A fire extinguisher can help prevent small fires from becoming big ones by allowing you to put out the flames before they spread.
The Benefits of Fire Extinguishers
The biggest benefit to having a fire extinguisher in the home is it can prevent a small fire from becoming a big one. Fire extinguishers can also save lives and property by allowing you to put out a fire before it causes significant damage.
Fire extinguishers work by removing one or more elements that are necessary for a fire to burn. They come in different types, each designed for specific types of fires. For example, a Class A fire extinguisher is designed for fires involving ordinary combustibles like wood or paper, while a Class B extinguisher is designed for flammable liquids like gasoline or oil.
Types of Fire Extinguishers
There are five main types of fire extinguishers: Class A, Class B, Class C, Class D, and Class K. Each type is designed for specific types of fires.
Class A fire extinguishers are designed for fires involving ordinary combustibles like wood, paper, or cloth. Class B extinguishers are designed for flammable liquids like gasoline or oil. Class C extinguishers are designed for electrical fires, while Class D extinguishers are designed for fires involving combustible metals. Class K extinguishers are designed for fires involving cooking oils and fats.
It is essential to know which type of fire extinguisher to use in case of a fire. Using the wrong type of extinguisher can make the fire worse.
An Alternative Fire Extinguisher
If you don’t want a traditional fire extinguisher, you might consider a First Alert EZ Fire Extinguisher Aerosol Spray. The product description on Amazon reads, “The First Alert EZ Fire Spray Fire Extinguishing Aerosol Spray is easier to use than traditional fire extinguishers and discharges 4 times longer than regular extinguishers, making it ideal for fighting common household fires and providing 32 seconds of discharge to ensure the fire is out. The nozzle sprays a wide area, giving you greater control to put out a fire faster. Just point and spray the Fire Extinguishing Aerosol Spray on household fires consisting of paper, fabric, wood, cooking oils, electrical appliances, or equipment. The portable extinguisher spray is ideal for the kitchen, boats, RVs, and travel, and the biodegradable, nontoxic-foam, fire-extinguishing formula wipes away with a damp cloth for easy cleanup.”
This is the route that I have personally chosen and I feel very comfortable with it. I have several placed in strategic areas in my home.

Where to Place Fire Extinguishers
Fire extinguishers should be placed in areas where fires are most likely to occur, such as the kitchen, garage, and workshop. It is also important to have multiple fire extinguishers in different areas of the home.
Fire extinguishers should be easily accessible and mounted on a wall or placed on a stand. They should not be hidden behind furniture or stored in a closet where they may be difficult to reach in an emergency.
How to Use a Fire Extinguisher
Knowing how to use a fire extinguisher is essential in case of a fire emergency. The acronym PASS can help you remember how to use a fire extinguisher:
– Pull the pin
– Aim at the base of the fire
– Squeeze the handle
– Sweep from side to side
It is important to remember that fire extinguishers are only effective on small fires. If a fire is too large or spreading too quickly, it is best to evacuate the area and call 911.
Fire Extinguisher Maintenance
Fire extinguishers should be inspected regularly and maintained according to the manufacturer’s instructions. They should be checked monthly for any signs of damage or leakage and replaced if necessary.
It is also important to have your fire extinguisher serviced by a professional every few years to ensure that it is in good working condition.
Fire Safety Tips
In addition to having a fire extinguisher in the home, there are several other fire safety tips that can help prevent fires from occurring:
– Install smoke detectors on every level of your home and test them regularly.
– Keep flammable materials away from heat sources.
– Never leave cooking food unattended.
– Have a fire escape plan and practice it with your family.
Conclusion
In conclusion, having a fire extinguisher in the home is essential for fire and home safety. Fires can occur at any time, and they can cause significant damage to property and even lead to loss of life. By having a fire extinguisher in the home, you can prevent small fires from becoming big ones and save lives and property. It is also important to follow other fire safety tips, such as installing smoke detectors and having a fire escape plan, to ensure that you and your family are prepared in case of a fire emergency.