Home Fire Extinguisher Inspection Day (Katei-you Shoukaki Tenken no Hi)

What is Home Fire Extinguisher Inspection Day?

January 19th is "Home Fire Extinguisher Inspection Day" in Japan. The date comes from the emergency number for the fire department, "119." It was established in 1991 by the National Fire Equipment Dealers Association. During winter, when dry air makes fires more likely, this day encourages people to check the condition of the fire extinguishers in their homes and be prepared for emergencies.

Why inspection is necessary

Do you assume your fire extinguisher is fine just because it's sitting there? In fact, fire extinguishers have an expiration date, and as they deteriorate, they may not function properly. If it doesn't work when you need it most, it's useless.

What happens if you skip inspections

• The chemical agent inside can solidify and fail to spray
• The container can corrode, creating a risk of it rupturing
• Pressure can leak out, preventing the extinguishing agent from being released
• The hose or nozzle can deteriorate and become unusable

Types of home fire extinguishers

There are several types of home fire extinguishers, each with different characteristics. Choosing the right one depends on where it will be placed and what it will be used for.

Main types of fire extinguishers

• Dry chemical extinguishers — the most common type, effective against a wide range of fires
• Strengthened liquid extinguishers — effective against cooking oil fires, with strong re-ignition prevention
• Aerosol-type compact extinguishers — compact and easy to handle
• Throw-type extinguishing tools — extinguish fires simply by throwing them at the flames

How to inspect a fire extinguisher

Regular inspection is essential to keep a fire extinguisher in proper working condition. Check the following points.

Visual inspection

• Check the container for rust, scratches, or dents
• Check the hose for cracks or blockages
• Check that the nozzle isn't damaged
• Check that the safety pin is properly attached
• Check that the "used" indicator hasn't been triggered

Pressure check

For extinguishers with a pressure gauge, check that the needle is in the green zone. If it's in the red zone, the pressure has dropped and the extinguisher needs to be replaced.

Checking the expiration date

Home fire extinguishers generally have a lifespan of about 5 years. Check the manufacturing date printed on the unit, and replace it promptly if the expiration date is approaching.

How to use a fire extinguisher correctly

To avoid panicking in an emergency, it helps to remember how to use a fire extinguisher. An easy way to remember the basics is "Pin, Pull, Press."

Steps for use

• Pin — pull out the safety pin
• Pull — remove the hose and aim it at the source of the fire
• Press — squeeze the lever to spray

Points to keep in mind when using one

• Spray from a distance of about 3-5 meters from the fire
• Aim at the base of what's burning, not the flames themselves
• Spray from upwind toward downwind
• Spray time is about 15 seconds—use it all at once

How to dispose of an old fire extinguisher

Fire extinguishers cannot be thrown away as regular trash. Take them to a designated collection point, or use a mail-based collection service. You can also consult the store where you bought it or a fire equipment dealer.

Let this inspection day be a starting point

Home Fire Extinguisher Inspection Day is a great opportunity to review your fire preparedness overall. Along with checking your fire extinguisher, also check that your smoke alarms are working and confirm your evacuation routes. To protect your family's life and property, start taking action today.