The 7 Most Common Fire Extinguisher Mistakes (and How to Avoid Them)

Fire extinguishers are one of the simplest yet most critical fire safety tools in any workplace or building. But having extinguishers on-site isn’t enough—improper use, neglect, or oversight can render them useless in an emergency. In fact, many businesses unknowingly make the same mistakes with their extinguishers year after year. In this post, we’ll highlight the seven most common fire extinguisher mistakes and provide clear tips on how to avoid them.

1. Storing Extinguishers in the Wrong Place

The mistake: Extinguishers hidden in closets, behind equipment, or too far from high-risk areas.
The risk: Delays in locating an extinguisher can allow a small fire to spread out of control.
The fix: NFPA standards require extinguishers to be:

• Readily accessible and visible.
• Mounted properly on walls with signage.
• Placed with a 75 feet of maximum travel distance for Class A hazards and 50 feet maximum for Class B hazards.

2. Ignoring Pressure Gauge Checks

The mistake: Not checking the pressure gauge regularly.
The risk: A discharged or depressurized extinguisher will not function during an emergency.
The fix:

• Check gauges monthly to confirm the needle is in the green zone.
• Report and replace or recharge extinguishers showing low pressure immediately.
• Train designated staff to perform these quick inspections.

3. Using the Wrong Extinguisher Class

The mistake: Attempting to fight all fires with the same extinguisher type.
The risk: The wrong extinguisher can make the fire worse (for example, using a water extinguisher on a grease fire) or injure personnel.
The fix:

• Match extinguishers to the hazards in your facility:
  • Class A: Paper, wood, cloth.
  • Class B: Flammable liquids & gases.
  • Class C: Electrical.
  • Class D: Combustible Metals.
  • Class K: Commercial kitchen oils/grease.
• Provide training so employees know which extinguisher to use.

4. Letting Tags Expire

The mistake: Failing to keep extinguishers up-to-date with annual inspection tags.
The risk: Out-of-date tags may indicate extinguishers have not been inspected, which can lead to fines and liability.
The fix:

• Schedule annual professional inspections per NFPA 10 requirements.
• Keep detailed records of all service dates.
• Replace outdated or missing tags immediately.

5. Blocking Access with Equipment or Storage

The mistake: Stacking boxes, carts, or furniture in front of fire extinguisher cabinets.
The risk: In an emergency, blocked extinguishers waste valuable seconds and may prevent access altogether.
The fix:

• Maintain at least 3 feet of clear space in front of every extinguisher.
• Use signage or floor markings to keep access points clear.
• Incorporate extinguisher checks into housekeeping routines.

6. Forgetting Employee Training

The mistake: Expecting employees to use extinguishers without ever practicing.
The risk: Untrained employees may panic, misuse extinguishers, or put themselves in danger.
The fix:

• Provide hands-on training at least once per year.
• Teach the PASS method: Pull, Aim, Squeeze, Sweep.
• Incorporate extinguisher use into broader fire safety drills.

7. Keeping Expired or Damaged Units

The mistake: Holding onto extinguishers long past their service life or ignoring dents, rust, or corrosion.
The risk: Old or damaged extinguishers may leak, fail, or even explode under pressure.
The fix:

• Follow manufacturer guidance and NFPA standards for service life (typically 5–12 years, depending on type).
• Replace or hydrostatically test units at required intervals.
• Dispose of expired extinguishers through certified recycling or service providers.

Conclusion: Small Steps, Big Safety Gains

Avoiding these common fire extinguisher mistakes doesn’t take much effort, but it can make the difference between a manageable incident and a devastating fire. With regular inspections, proper training, and professional servicing, your fire extinguishers will always be ready when you need them most. Need help with inspections, training, or compliance? Contact Koorsen Fire & Security today to schedule a fire extinguisher service and ensure your facility is fully protected.