Can I keep a fire extinguisher outside?

Author: Ms. Edythe Schamberger  |  Last update: Wednesday, April 2, 2025

You can store a fire extinguisher outdoors, however, it must be in a secure place and away from the elements. NEVER store an extinguisher in your garage or shed unless it is locked away, out of sight and protected. If your fire extinguisher is not in use, then it should be stored in a cool, dry place at all times.

Can a fire extinguisher be left out in the cold?

The majority of fire extinguishers will still function adequately after being stored in freezing temperatures. However, for safety reasons, you must replace devices that are damaged. Storing fire extinguishers outdoors in normal or freezing temperatures leaves them open to precipitation and humidity.

Can fire extinguishers be left in the sun?

If you want to be cautious, you should store your extinguisher near the floor and out of the sun.

Do fire extinguishers need to be off the ground?

Those with gross weights of no more than 40 pounds (lbs.) should be mounted with their carrying handles no higher than 5 feet from the floor. Larger fire extinguishers (over 40 lbs. gross weight) need to be mounted at lower heights, with their carrying handles no more than 3-1/2 feet from the floor.

Where is the best place to keep a fire extinguisher?

The kitchen and garage are good sites for an extinguisher. However, do not place an extinguisher over the stove or buried in storage in the garage, but rather hang it on the wall no less than 4 inches or greater than 5 feet from the ground.

Where to Keep Your Fire Extinguisher at Home

Is it safe to leave a fire extinguisher outside?

The short answer: is yes, you can store a fire extinguisher outside.

Can fire extinguishers be stored in a hot car?

Fire extinguishers can be kept in an automobile, RV, or trailer as long as temperatures do not fall outside of the range of -40 to 120 degrees Fahrenheit.

Where not to put a fire extinguisher?

A fire extinguisher should always be placed in a path of escape not in the line of fire. If a fire blocks your path to a fire extinguisher, consider repositioning it to another spot.

Where is the proper location of a fire extinguisher?

Place a fire extinguisher near the living room exit and another near any fireplaces or space heaters. Offices – In an office setting, fire extinguishers should be placed near exits, copy rooms, break rooms, and any other areas with electrical devices or flammable materials.

What is the OSHA rule for fire extinguisher placement?

Distance: In general, the travel distance to reach an extinguisher should not exceed 75 feet for Class A hazards and 50 feet for Class B hazards. Mounting Height: Equipment weighing 40 pounds or less should be installed so that the top is no more than five feet above the floor.

What happens if a fire extinguisher gets too hot?

Having said all this, the Underwriters Laboratory test does not guarantee that the fire extinguishers will be effective after exposure to high temperature. It is possible that the valve could leak, slowly releasing pressure or that the heat could alter the chemical composition of the fire retardant.

Should fire extinguishers be covered?

Covers are often used for protection of extin- guishers in outdoor applications, including vehicles like trash trucks and fuel trucks. Extinguisher cabinets are also needed for protection of extinguishers in outdoor environments, like self-service gas stations and industrial areas.

Is it bad to store a fire extinguisher on its side?

A modern fire extinguisher can be stored horizontally. The contents are under pressure, and the angle of storage will not cause the system to leak. Proper fire extinguisher storage includes using the appropriate mounting brackets, and being sure that you do not allow your extinguishers to freeze.

Can a fire extinguisher be exposed to sunlight?

Ultraviolet sunlight degrades all seals and parts rapidly. Fire extinguishers are no exception. On average, fire extinguishers exposed to sunlight tend to deteriorate faster than those out of direct sunlight.

Are fire extinguishers weatherproof?

Traditional steel fire extinguishers can be left outside if they are in a weatherproof cabinet or box. P50 Service-Free Fire Extinguishers can be left outside without extra protection from the weather. This is because they are completely weatherproof and do not corrode.

Do unused fire extinguishers go bad?

How long do fire extinguishers last? The average lifespan of a powder, foam or water extinguisher is usually between 10 and 12 years. This is based on the extinguisher being in good condition with no corrosion or damage. After this time, the fire extinguisher should be replaced with a new one.

What are the rules for placing fire extinguishers?

If visual obstructions cannot be avoided, then arrows, lights, or signs are needed to help indicate where a fire extinguisher is located. Extinguishers should be placed where they are readily accessible in the event of a fire, which typically includes normal paths of travel.

Where is the best place to put a fire extinguisher in your home?

Place fire extinguishers within reach on every level of your home. For your main home protection, install a 2-A: 10-B:C rated living area unit on every level of your home. Install close to exits, and in the kitchen and garage. Include all locations where a fire may start.

How long does a 5 pound fire extinguisher last?

When you purchase a new carbon dioxide, pressurized water, or wet chemical extinguisher, you can expect it to last at least five years. For dry chemical extinguishers, the minimum lifespan is 12 years.

What happens if you leave a fire extinguisher outside?

Remember, always keep your fire extinguisher protected from the outdoor elements. Aside from freezing temperatures, precipitation and humidity may cause your canister to corrode or rust and cause damage that will impede its functionality.

What is the golden rule of fire extinguishers?

The golden rule is that only one extinguisher is used. If that fails to extinguish the fire, STOP and leave.

Can I store a fire extinguisher in my garage?

While it's a great idea to have a fire extinguisher in your garage, make sure it's positioned in a protected way and not exposed to potential harm from sharp tools or vehicles.

Should you keep a fire extinguisher in your house?

Yes, provided you know when and how to use it. Fire extinguishers can be a small but important part of the home fire safety plan. They can save lives and property by putting out a small fire or suppressing it until the fire department arrives.

Where should I mount a fire extinguisher in my car?

The Seat Mount can be used on both the front and rear seat mount bolts. So if in front of the seat is not an option, consider the rear. Some seats also allow bolting to the underside of the seat, which then allows the extinguisher to move with the seat when adjusting its position.

How to store a fire extinguisher at home?

Store your extinguisher in easily accessible areas. Store your extinguisher somewhere on the way out of your current location. Store your extinguisher in a dry, cool place at all times.

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