Fire is dangerous. It spreads fast, causes damage, and can
take lives. That is why fire safety is important in every place—homes, offices,
schools, and shops. One key part of fire safety is having a working fire extinguisher. But just having one is not enough. It must be checked and
maintained often. This is especially true in a busy and growing city like
Dubai.
Why Fire Extinguishers Matter
A fire extinguisher is the first tool used when a fire
breaks out. It can stop a small fire before it turns into a large one. This can
save buildings and protect people. In Dubai, where many buildings are tall and
packed with people, a working extinguisher can make all the difference.
Fires in homes and offices often start from simple things—an
electrical short, an overheated appliance, or a cooking accident. A fire
extinguisher gives people a chance to act quickly. But this chance only exists
if the extinguisher works. That is why maintenance is so important.
What Can Go Wrong?
Many people do not realize that fire extinguishers can fail.
Here are a few common problems:
- Loss of pressure: If the pressure drops, the extinguisher
may not spray.
- Broken nozzle or handle: These parts must be in good shape
to work.
- Blocked hose: Dust or rust can clog the hose.
- Expired chemicals: Some types use chemicals that lose
strength over time.
- Tampering: Kids or others might remove the safety pin, or
damage the device.
Any of these problems can cause the extinguisher to fail in
an emergency. Regular checks help find and fix them early.
Why Maintenance Matters More in Dubai
Dubai is hot for most of the year. The extreme heat can
affect fire extinguishers. High temperatures can raise internal pressure,
causing leaks or even small bursts. In some cases, the heat breaks down the
chemicals inside, making them less effective.
Also, Dubai has many types of buildings. Hotels, malls, and
offices use different kinds of fire extinguishers. Each type needs a different
kind of check. For example, a dry powder extinguisher may need to be shaken or
refilled, while a CO2 extinguisher must be weighed to check for leaks.
In a city with so many workers and visitors, safety rules
are strict. Dubai Civil Defence (DCD) has clear rules on fire extinguisher use
and upkeep. Every business must follow them to stay open. Not doing so can lead
to fines, or worse—fire damage and loss of life.
What Maintenance Involves
Fire extinguisher maintenance is not just about looking at
the outside. It must follow a clear process. Here are the main steps:
1. Visual Inspection: Look for damage, missing parts, or
leaks. Make sure the safety pin is in place and the label is clear.
2. Pressure Check: Read the gauge. The needle should be in
the green zone.
3. Clean the Unit: Dust and dirt can hide damage or clog the
nozzle.
4. Check the Date: Extinguishers must be serviced every
year. Some types also need to be emptied and refilled every few years.
5. Test the Hose and Nozzle: Make sure they are not cracked
or blocked.
6. Weighing: For gas-based extinguishers, weight tells you
if any gas has leaked.
Only trained people should do this work. Many companies in
Dubai offer this service. They are licensed by the DCD and follow safety rules.
How Often Should It Be Done?
Fire extinguishers need to be checked once a month and fully
serviced once a year. Monthly checks are quick. They help catch small issues
early. Yearly service takes longer. It often includes opening the unit and
checking the inside.
Some types also need a pressure test every 5 years. This is
called hydrostatic testing. It checks if the cylinder is still strong enough to
hold pressure. After 10 or 12 years, some types may need full replacement.
Who Is Responsible?
In homes, the homeowner should do monthly checks. They
should also call a licensed service company for yearly checks.
In offices and shops, the building manager is often
responsible. They must keep records to show the extinguisher was checked and
serviced. These records help during safety audits or after a fire.
Signs That Service Is Needed
Even if you are not an expert, you can spot some warning
signs. These include:
- The gauge shows low pressure.
- The pin is missing.
- The nozzle is cracked or blocked.
- The label is unreadable.
- The unit is past its service date.
If you see any of these, call a professional at once.
The Cost of Ignoring Maintenance
Skipping maintenance may save money in the short term, but
the risks are high. A broken extinguisher is useless in a fire. The damage from
a fire can cost far more—burned property, injured people, and legal trouble.
Also, insurance may not cover fire damage if it is found
that fire safety rules were ignored. So, the real cost of skipping maintenance
is much higher.
Final Thoughts
Fire safety is not just about alarms and sprinklers. A fire
extinguisher, when working well, is one of the best tools to stop a fire early.
In a city like Dubai, where the heat and high-rise buildings make fire safety
even more important, regular maintenance is not optional. It is a must.
Take action today. Check your extinguisher. If you are not
sure it is in good shape, call a licensed fire safety service. It is a small
step that can save lives.
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